Far too many lives have been destroyed by our senseless war on drugs. Millions of people have criminal records for drug offenses that make it harder to get student loans, find affordable housing, and secure a good job. Even more disturbing, our drug war has unevenly targeted people of color. Massachusetts’ current policy of marijuana prohibition has been a cornerstone of this failed drug war approach. Data shows that in Massachusetts, black citizens are four times more likely to be arrested for marijuana than whites, despite virtually identical usage rates. It is imperative that our community turn out to the polls this November, not only to elect a new president, but also to vote for a more rational approach to drug policy in Massachusetts, by voting yes on Question 4.
Margaret C. Nash, attorney
Jamaica Plain resident