Editor’s note: this article originally appeared in The Outlaw Report, and has been republished with permission.
The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) spearheaded a week-long advocacy effort in Washington D.C. last week, culminating in the 420 Unity Day of Action. The initiative, the largest bi-partisan cannabis advocacy event to date according to LPP, aimed to push for federal legalization and provide relief for individuals still incarcerated for cannabis offenses.
LPP coordinated lobbying efforts with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle. A press conference featured supportive remarks from prominent figures like Senators Ron Wyden and Cory Booker, and Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Ayanna Pressley. The message focused on the social and racial injustice inherent in cannabis criminalization, particularly considering legalization efforts gaining traction across the country.
The human impact of cannabis prohibition was highlighted throughout the week. A candlelight vigil outside the White House drew attention to the plight of those still imprisoned for cannabis-related offenses. Advocates emphasized the racial disparities in such arrests, pointing to stories like those of LPP constituents Bryan Reid, Kyle Page and Andy Cox – individuals who served time for cannabis offenses.
LPP urged lawmakers to co-sponsor federal legalization bills like the MORE Act and the
