Re: Response to legal marijuana issue, Sooke News Mirror, Jan 11, 2012
Did I really just read a letter from someone in Colorado, suggesting the legalization of marijuana in Canada? We have made tremendous strides across the country, and especially right here in Sooke in recent years in terms of educating our youth to make smart, healthy choices for themselves, and it is paying dividends in our community. The writer’s case for legalizing marijuana hinges on pointing out that it hasn’t been directly responsible for anyone’s death. Really? Is this the best measuring stick to apply? Is there actually anyone out there who thinks this is the basis for a good argument? Do we have to embrace something as a good choice, as long as it doesn’t kill us? The next best argument that like-minded people have come up with is that marijuana isn’t as bad as alcohol. Sorry, but that’s an equally weak agenda to push.
Does anyone really buy into the notion that “the war on drugs has failed” because you still see people using drugs, and tragedies occurring as a result?
Has the “war” on theft failed, because you still see people stealing? Or the “war” on speeding, because people still drive over the speed limit? How about the “war” on littering? Should we just legalize everything and give up? It’s been said that all that needs to occur in order for evil to triumph, is for good men and women to do nothing. If we start looking at legalizing marijuana, then we’ve taken one step in that direction. It means we’re giving up. We have too many good men and women here to do that, and too many good kids who would be casualties as a result.
I know for a fact that the “war” on drugs has not failed. There are kids right here in this community who say no to drugs every day. That’s a victory. And it’s one worth celebrating. Now, do I wish that drug use was an easier issue to deal with in terms of enforcement? Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean that we stop trying. It just means we need to be smarter in trying.
In addition to the RCMP’s drug prevention efforts (both reactive and proactive), there are a growing number of people right here in Sooke, who are actively working to help support kids in making smart choices. Let’s teach our kids to make good decisions that will enable them to fulfill their potential. How? Great question. I’m glad you asked. It’s easier than you may think. E-mail me at scott.hilderley@rcmp-grc.gc.ca and I’ll fill you in. Giving up is not an option.
Scott Hilderley
RCMP’s Drugs and Organized Crime Awareness Service