An estimated 40,000 people gathered Saturday at the Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition’s (MassCann/NORML) 12th Annual Freedom Rally to show their support for reforming US marijuana laws and reflect upon last week’s tragic terrorist attacks.
Many in attendance waved flags and chanted “USA” throughout the daylong event, held at the historic Boston Common. Others wore black armbands and observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims of Tuesday’s “Attack on America.”
Speakers at the event, including NORML Executive Director Keith Stroup, longtime political activist John Sinclair, Efficacy President Clifford Thornton Jr. and Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Carla Howell, addressed the crowd from a stage adorned with American flags. All spoke of the horror of last week’s tragedy, and many concluded that the nation would be better served if our law enforcement resources targeted terrorists and violent criminals rather than pot smokers.
“MassCann’s organizers are to be commended for making the best out of a very difficult situation,” Stroup said. “Saturday’s event effectively combined protest and patriotism, and was well attended and well received by Bostonians.”
MassCann/NORML President Bill Downing said he was happy the event took place as scheduled. “There [was] a great sense of community here,” he said. “It seemed to renew people’s spirits.”
To view photos or read first hand accounts of this year’s rally, please visit http://www.masscann.org.
