Today CALM (Citizens Against Legalizing Marijuana) joins with the rest of the World community in mourning the passing of Nelson Mandela.

In a world beset by forces of enslavement and bondage, Nelson Mandela was a poetic and articulate voice – and often a lonely voice – on behalf of freedom from those evil forces.   His leadership not only erased the toxins of Apartheid from his beloved homeland, but also resulted in the creation of a new nation, one based on freedom, justice and reconciliation.

Nelson Mandela had a keen understanding that enslavement comes in all forms, and recognized and fought against the bondage of drug use.  His very words on this subject should give pause to the politicians bent on increasing the availability of enslaving drugs:

“We should never underestimate the dangers of the drug problem and the high price that it exacts from many countries, including our own. It is a serious threat not only to moral and intellectual integrity of our nation and other nations. It is a serious threat to the health and well being of our people.”

“Drug trafficking and corruption pose serious problems for South Africa and for most African countries. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that cultivation and manufacturing of drugs such as cannabis and mandrax are also being done in our sub-region.”

In recognition of the lasting imprint made by this great man, CALM today announces its intent, beginning in December 2014 and every year thereafter to confer the Nelson Mandela Freedom from Drug Enslavement Award on the person who has contributed singularly to freeing people from the enslavement of drug use.  Of course, for 2013 and for all of the years preceding this year, our first award is conferred on Nelson Mandela.

Source:   CALMca.org:  12/11/2013