THUNDER BAY – Talk about timing! As the federal government proceeds with its omnibus crime bill, the Thunder Bay Drug Strategy is set to host a series of presentations and workshops with Retired Judge Marvin Morten to examine the effects of mandatory minimum sentencing on youth, Aboriginal people and people living in poverty.
Patty Hajdu, coordinator of the Strategy, says that bringing Judge Morten to Thunder Bay arose from conversations with youth about how current drug legislation affects them. “The youth we have interacted with throughout the development of the Drug Strategy have told us that current legislation disproportionately affects youth in numerous ways. One of the most surprising things we learned was that marijuana is much easier for them to get than alcohol. Of course this makes sense because alcohol is regulated and controlled, so people need ID to purchase in most cases. But the youth we spoke to had no problem buying drugs anywhere.”
As part of the Pot, Pills and Parties conference for Thunder Bay youth, scheduled for October 14th, youth will hear Judge Morten’s message, but also have an opportunity to learn some basic information about drugs, such as short and long term effects, risks of overdose and what to do, what the law currently states about marijuana use, possession and sale, and how to party in a safer manner. Finally, the day will wrap up with a panel on how harm reduction services how help drug users stay healthy and access services.
While in town, Judge Morten will also speak at a community session open to everyone, to be held on October 13, 7 pm at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit (999 Balmoral Street).
Don’t miss your chance to hear why the Canadian Bar Association has spoken out against this proposed federal legislation.
Patty Hajdu
For more information, contact Patty Hajdu at 625-7994 or visit www.thunderbaydrugstrategy.ca or join our Facebook group at Facebook – Pot, Pills, and Parties.
NetNewsledger.com and Shaw TV Thunder Bay will be live-streaming Judge Morton’s presentation as a part of our expanding coverage of local news and events.