Despite the legalization of cannabis in many US states possession of marijuana is still a felony under federal law where it is classed as a schedule 1 drug. That is the same class as cocaine and heroin!
Being found in possession of marijuana can result in imprisonment and because it is a felony it goes on the individual’s record where it then becomes a barrier to employment.Â
The Last Prisoner Project (LPP), is a non-profit dedicated to releasing cannabis prisoners and helping them rebuild their lives. The War on Drugs has led to the mass incarceration of thousands, if not millions of non-violent drug offenders in America over the last five decades. Many of these only for the possession of cannabis. There are some 40,000 people who are still in custody today only for cannabis possession.
The main objectives of the Last Prisoner Project are first of all to help those incarcerated for cannabis possession get out of custody. This objective could well be accelerated if the Democrats win the presidential election and gain control of both legislative houses. Although Biden has been fairly quiet on this topic his candidate for vice president has made some clear statements that she is in favor of decriminalization and expungement of criminal records.
That also forms part of the LLP’s objectives and would create a means of opening up employment opportunities for those currently inhibited because of a felony conviction on their record. However, this may well take a while before it takes effect so there is a need to address the problems released prisoners face now.
In that respect, LLP is looking towards the legal cannabis industry as a medium of employment for released prisoners looking for sound job opportunities. To assist with this they are offering access to education designed to equip participants with the tools they need to succeed. Everything from cultivation practices to extraction methods and business leadership.
Another objective is to become a sufficiently recognized voice so that when new laws are being discussed and created for the legalization and adult-use across the country, that Last Prisoner Project has a seat at the table, so we can advocate for the prisoners as these new laws are formulated.
Of course, as with any 501(c)(3) finding support is a major necessity so LPP is looking for sponsors but they also want to encourage people to follow the group on social media or share their personal experiences on the Constituent Stories page.Â
So, if you can support LPP in some way, financially, morally, or by offering employment opportunities to released prisoners they will be delighted to hear from you.
