It’s 4/20, John, so let’s talk about cannabis — bluntly.

I know the U.S. has the highest incarcerated population in the world partially due to jailing individuals with minor non-violent drug offenses. I also know that the majority of overdose deaths involve opioids, and that cannabis is not an opioid.

The fearmongering we see from the GOP over cannabis is just a show to distract us from the real problem Big Pharma — and all the cash they give to GOP politicians — in our country.

After I served overseas in combat, I witnessed the barriers veterans faced in accessing medical cannabis because of its strict federal regulations. Many veterans use cannabis to treat physical injuries and mental health conditions like PTSD and anxiety. After all they have given to our country, struggling to find adequate medical care isn’t a hit my brothers and sisters in uniform should have to take.

Cannabis legalization and decriminalization are public health issues. If you agree, celebrate 4/20 by donating $4.20 to our people-powered movement →

I am going to Congress to take the fight to the establishment that has let our veterans down, and I hope you’ll pass the word along.

Thanks for pitching in,

Ashley