That pardon of all previous federal offenses of simple possession of marijuana, announced by President Joe Biden Thursday, marks a historic triumph for advocacy groups. The pardon offers thousands of cannabis prisoners and their families a second chance at life.
“Since 1965, nearly 29 million Americans have been arrested for marijuana-related violations — activities that a majority of voters no longer believe should be a crime.” said Managing Director of NORML Erik Altieri.
While the pardon does not mean cannabis prisoners will have a place in this booming industry, the combination of the presidential pardon and the possible passage of the SAFE Plus lawwill mark a sea change for the industry and a historic revival of the right to grow, sell and consume weed.
“It’s legal in many states, and criminal convictions for marijuana possession have created unnecessary barriers to employment, housing and educational opportunities,” Biden said.
But how does this fundamental change affect Latinxs in particular?
Most importantly, Latinxs represent a significant portion of the incarcerated population for cannabis in the US. Additionally, Biden’s realization is that the long war on drugs has failed and that it is time to embark on a different path that may have geopolitical ramifications south of Rio Bravo.
Latin American politicians follow US policies closely. This process, known as policy diffusion, can help drive the legalization of adult use in Latin America, opening up prisons and business opportunities.
Latinxs are returning to their families and communities
Although cannabis is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, more than 40,000 people in the US alone are incarcerated for cannabis-related crimes.
The United States has the highest incarceration rates in the world. Within this systemLatinos make up about 30 percent of the country’s population, but nearly sixty percent of…
