By Don Duncan, California Director, Americans for Safe Access
The California Supreme Court ruled that cities and counties can ban storefront medical cannabis patients’ cooperatives and collectives, even though they are legal under state law. That ruling is disappointing, but not the end of the line for activists working to overcome barriers to safe and dignified access to medicine in their communities. In their unanimous ruling, the Justices specifically said that “nothing prevents future efforts by the Legislature, or by the People, to adopt a different approach.” Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is launching a new program to help local activists do just that.
ASA’s Local Activists Workshops are monthly half-day training and strategy sessions designed to help local organizers repeal bans, adopt new ordinances, or launch voter initiative campaigns at the city and county level. Small groups of activists will work one-on-one with me on strategies and skills you need to be effective at the local level. Workshop topics include strategic planning, legislative analysis, civic processes, effective messaging, fundraising, media, coalition building and more. Follow up support will also be available from ASA’s innovative Medical Cannabis Think Tank and Policy Shop.
You can register now for ASA’s first Local Activist Workshop on Sunday, May 26, in West Hollywood. Workshops will alternate between southern and northern California after that. Get the details, schedule, and download a flyer to share from the ASA website –AmericansForSafeAccess.org/Local-Activist-Workshops The tuition is just $50 for ASA members or $85 for non-members (tuition includes annual membership).
What: Local Activist Workshop – West Hollywood/Los Angeles
When: 12:00 – 4:00 PM * Sunday, May 26, 2013
Where: 7211 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 100, West Hollywood, CA 90046 (second floor)
Space is limited. Advance registration is required. The first northern California workshop will be on Friday, June 7, in downtown Oakland.
We are going to keep pushing for statewide regulations to expand safe access and protect patients’ rights, but we need you to help carry the banner in your home town. Let ASA help to set you up for success with the strategies and skills you need to plan, execute, and fund your campaign.
Thanks for fighting for safe and dignified access in your community. I am looking forward to helping you make it happen!
Source: Americans for Safe Access - make a donation
