Arguments Against Marijuana Legalization

Falsehoods Fabricated from Fiendish Fearmongering For nearly a century, marijuana has been regarded by many Americans as a monstrous, life ruining drug that must remain prohibited. In recent years, millions of people have argued in favor of the legalization of marijuana because of its potential medicinal benefits. However, there are many other compelling arguments to make in favor of legalization as well. These arguments, on the other hand, do not all relate to the medicinal uses of the marijuana plant, but rather legalization’s benefits and criminalization’s harms to society. Marijuana must become legal in the US because it is far safer than other legal drugs, is supporting a gigantic, underground industry that is fundamental to gangs, and
Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans are arrested for marijuana possession, many of whom are nonviolent and otherwise innocent (Crime). While prison sentences are rare for such a crime, there are serious, indirect repercussions that result nonetheless; Many young adults may lose their scholarships or financial aid and others could lose their jobs. In some states, people arrested for marijuana possession may also be required to pay fines, potentially costing them thousands of dollars (Stine). However, the people most vulnerable to marijuana punishments are minorities; This is a result of a century long crusade against blacks, Hispanics, and other subcultures. Before the early 1900s, marijuana was legal in every state in the US; Throughout this time period, there was an increase in Mexican immigrants in the US and, unfortunately, an increased distaste for Mexicans in the American people’s minds. States then began criminalizing marijuana, until the drug was eventually illegal in 29 states (“Marijuana Timeline”). Dr. Malik Burnett and Amanda Reiman, PhD, activists at the Drug Policy Alliance, state “The demonization of the cannabis plant was an extension of the demonization of the Mexican immigrants.” They explain that the states criminalized weed “to have an excuse to search, detain and deport Mexican immigrants.” Then, in
If cannabis is decriminalized, the quality of life will be improved for millions of American citizens and the country as a whole will benefit. Legalization is an idea that nearly all people can support if they learn the truth about the issue, instead of consuming the lies propagated and supported by those with a vested interest in keeping cannabis illegal. As citizens of the Land of the Free, Americans deserve the right to use marijuana as they