Students For Sensible Drug Policy In Canada
Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy (CSSDP) is a grassroots network comprised of youth and students who are concerned about the negative impact our drug policies have on individuals and communities. CSSDP considers problematic drug use in society primarily a health issue rather than a criminal justice issue, and advocates for appropriate responses to reduce and prevent harm from drug use. CSSDP provides education and resources to empower chapters formed by students and youth in their work on substance use issues facing their peer groups and communities. CSSDP mobilizes it members to participate in the political process at all levels, pushing for sensible policies to achieve a safer and more just future, while combating counterproductive drug policies, particularly those that directly harm young people.
- Drugs are a Health issue
- All policies and programs aimed at reducing the harms associated with drug use in society should address the issue as a public health concern, not as a criminal justice issue. This has been proven to be more effective by studies world-wide
Education
- Accessibility
- The Centre for Excellence in Youth Engagement has found that drug education and prevention programs that meet young people where they are at, even if they are using drugs and alcohol, are the most effective.
- Education programs like DARE, run by the Police, may be effective in reminding youth that drugs are illegal. However, they have been highly ineffective in seriously reaching young people about drugs in their personal lives.
- Honest, open dialogue
- Drug education is an empowerment. Young people should be provided with all the information available and encouraged to make their own decisions about their physical and mental health.
- All education should acknowledge and respect young people’s personal experience, a discussion that should be approached only in a space of compassion and non-judgment.
Check out the Canadian Student’s for Sensible Drug Policy to learn more and get involved!
