In recent days, the conversation around cannabis legalization in Cyprus has reached a new level of intensity. About eight days ago, social media platforms like Twitter (now X), Facebook, and Instagram began buzzing with discussions, petitions, and activist campaigns advocating for broader access to medical cannabis and the legalization of personal cultivation. This surge of public interest and online activism comes after years of stagnation in the country’s cannabis policy implementation, despite medical cannabis being legalized as far back as 2017.

The Social Media Movement: A Force to Be Reckoned With

The current social media push began as a coordinated effort from various grassroots organizations and activists who were frustrated with the government’s slow progress in making medical cannabis available to patients who need it most. What began as a few isolated posts has now transformed into a powerful movement that shows no signs of slowing down.

Over the last eight days, platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram have been flooded with posts, hashtags, and even paid advertisements advocating for the swift implementation of the medical cannabis law. The message is clear: Cypriots want immediate access to cannabis for therapeutic purposes and the right to grow their own plants for personal use.

Petitions supporting these changes are circulating widely, and the number of signatures is rapidly growing. Just this past week, one campaign calling for the legalization of medical cannabis and personal cultivation surpassed 1,000 signatures. The petition’s momentum is showing no signs of slowing down, with organizers now setting their sights on reaching 1,500 signatures and beyond. Once the campaign hits 2,000 signatures, organizers plan to submit their petition to the Ministry of Health, urging officials to take concrete steps towards implementation and reform.

The Broader Cannabis Landscape in Cyprus

To understand the current movement, it’s important to take a step back and look at the broader cannabis landscape in Cyprus. In 2017, Cyprus took its first steps towards legalizing medical cannabis, allowing it to be prescribed to patients suffering from serious conditions such as cancer. In 2019, the government expanded the scope of the law, extending access to patients suffering from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and glaucoma. This legislative change brought hope to thousands of Cypriots suffering from chronic conditions.

However, despite the legal framework being in place, patients are still struggling to access medical cannabis due to bureaucratic and regulatory delays. As of today, there are still no significant efforts to issue the licenses necessary to start cultivation and distribution. This lack of action has left many patients without access to the treatment they desperately need, driving activists to take their message to social media.

Why Now? What’s Driving the Surge?

The recent social media buzz didn’t happen in a vacuum. Several factors have contributed to the sudden increase in online activity around cannabis legalization in Cyprus.

1. Frustration with Government Delays: Patients who qualify for medical cannabis under the law have found that they cannot access it. While medical cannabis is technically legal, the lack of implementation means that those who need it are often left to seek alternatives in the black market, which is both risky and illegal.

2. Global Momentum: Across Europe and the world, cannabis legalization is advancing. Countries like Malta, Germany, Luxembourg, and Spain have implemented more progressive cannabis laws, including personal cultivation models, which allow individuals to grow a small number of plants for personal use. Meanwhile, Canada, certain states in the U.S., and even Thailand have made significant strides in cannabis regulation. Cypriots are watching these developments unfold and are pushing their government to follow suit.

3. Public Health and Economic Arguments: Advocates argue that legalizing personal cannabis cultivation not only provides critical relief for patients but also presents an economic opportunity for Cyprus. Legalizing cannabis cultivation could create new jobs and generate tax revenue, which could be reinvested in healthcare and education. Furthermore, regulation would help cut down on the black market, ensuring that consumers have access to safe, tested products.

4. The Power of Social Media: Social media platforms have proven to be incredibly effective tools for organizing and rallying support. By using hashtags, paid ads, and viral content, activists are reaching a wide audience quickly and efficiently. In just a matter of days, thousands of Cypriots have joined the conversation, sharing posts and signing petitions to advocate for change.

The Role of Media and Influencers

As the movement continues to grow, traditional media outlets are starting to take notice. Cyprus Mail, and other media platforms have been covering the ongoing discussions about medical cannabis and the delays in implementing the law. These news outlets are amplifying the social media buzz, giving the movement additional visibility and legitimacy.

Moreover, key influencers in the Cypriot cannabis community have stepped up to the plate. Organizations like CY-CA.org (Cyprus Cannabis Association) have been particularly vocal about the need for reform. Recently, Andria Andreou, President of CY-CA, expressed her support for the movement, proposing collaboration between activists and organizations to present a unified front to the government. This growing partnership between grassroots activists and more established organizations like CY-CA is helping the movement gain credibility and momentum.

What Happens Next?

With the petition quickly gaining signatures, the next step for activists is to continue applying pressure on both the Ministry of Health and the media. The goal is to keep the conversation going, ensuring that the issue remains front and center in public discourse.

As the campaign approaches 1,500 signatures, activists plan to strengthen their collaboration with organizations like CY-CA to amplify their message and gain further support. Once the petition reaches 2,000 signatures, the plan is to formally submit the request to the Ministry of Health, calling for the immediate distribution of medical cannabis in pharmacies, as well as the adoption of personal cultivation models similar to those in countries like Malta and Germany.

Additionally, activists are preparing to push for a public consultation on cannabis reform, allowing citizens to voice their opinions and concerns. This would be a major step forward, potentially paving the way for more comprehensive cannabis legislation that covers both medical and recreational use.

Why Personal Cultivation Matters

One of the most pressing demands of the movement is the legalization of personal cannabis cultivation. This model, which allows individuals to grow a small number of cannabis plants for personal use, has been successfully implemented in several European countries. Advocates argue that allowing personal cultivation would give patients more control over their treatment, ensuring that they have access to high-quality cannabis without having to rely on the black market.

Moreover, personal cultivation could help address the supply shortages that are likely to occur if and when the government begins to issue cultivation licenses. By allowing individuals to grow their own plants, the government can help ensure that patients have immediate access to the treatment they need while the industry develops.

The Role of the Health Minister: What Will He Do?

As the pressure mounts, all eyes are now on Health Minister Michalis Damianos, who has publicly stated his commitment to improving healthcare services. Recently, the Minister reiterated that “health is the ultimate good” and that his work focuses on ensuring patients’ rights. Given his statements, the question now is: Will he act on medical cannabis reform?

With over 1,000 signatures supporting cannabis legalization, the Minister faces increasing public pressure. His previous efforts to modernize health services and legislative frameworks suggest that the full implementation of medical cannabis laws could be the next logical step. Will he take the necessary steps to ensure that patients gain safe and legal access to cannabis?

The Final Push: Why Your Voice Matters

As the movement for cannabis reform in Cyprus gains traction, it’s more important than ever for citizens to get involved. Whether it’s signing the petition, sharing posts on social media, or reaching out to local representatives, every action counts. The more support the movement gains, the harder it will be for the government to ignore the growing demand for change.

In the coming weeks, the conversation around cannabis legalization in Cyprus is likely to intensify. With continued pressure from both social media and the media, there’s a real chance that the government will finally take action to implement the laws that have been on the books since 2017.

For now, the activists and advocates behind the movement are calling on all Cypriots to join the conversation and make their voices heard. The future of cannabis legalization in Cyprus is being written right now—and with enough public support, change could be just around the corner.

CYPRUS’ GROWING MARIJUANA VOICE, READ ON…

CYPRUS HAS BEEN PUSHING FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR 6 YEARS!

Secret Tapes Reveal that the Father of the Drug War didn’t think that weed was that bad

Richard Nixon, often regarded as the “Father of the Drug War,” left an indelible mark on American drug policy that continues to shape our society today. In 1971, Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) into law, setting in motion a series of events that would dramatically alter the landscape of drug regulation and enforcement in the United States. This pivotal piece of legislation not only granted pharmaceutical companies a virtual monopoly over drug production and distribution but also weaponized the justice system against non-violent individuals who chose to consume substances deemed illegal by the government.

Nixon’s public stance on drugs, particularly marijuana, was uncompromising and harsh. He championed a zero-tolerance approach, famously declaring drug abuse as “public enemy number one” and calling for an “all-out offensive” against it. This rhetoric laid the groundwork for decades of aggressive anti-drug policies that have led to the incarceration of countless individuals for non-violent drug offenses.

However, recently uncovered secret recordings paint a starkly different picture of Nixon’s private views on marijuana. These tapes, captured in the intimate chambers of his staff meetings, reveal a man whose personal opinions on cannabis were far more nuanced and less severe than his public pronouncements suggested. The disconnect between Nixon’s public policy and private thoughts raises troubling questions about the foundations of the War on Drugs and its lasting impact on American society.

Today, we’ll take a deep dive into Nixon’s recorded statements, analyzing them in the context of a nation where hundreds of thousands of people continue to face legal consequences for cannabis-related offenses. As we examine these private conversations, we’ll confront the unsettling reality that the architect of America’s drug war may have been fully aware of the disconnect between marijuana’s actual risks and the draconian measures he publicly supported to combat its use.

The public persona of Richard Nixon was that of a staunch anti-drug crusader, a man who viewed drug abuse as an existential threat to American society. In June 1971, Nixon famously declared drug abuse as “public enemy number one” and called for a “new, all-out offensive” to combat it. This declaration effectively launched the War on Drugs, a campaign that would reshape American criminal justice policy for decades to come.

Nixon’s public actions matched his rhetoric. He signed the Controlled Substances Act in 1970, which established the scheduling system for drugs that remains in place today. Under this system, marijuana was classified as a Schedule I substance, alongside drugs like heroin, deemed to have “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” This classification flew in the face of scientific evidence even then, but it aligned with Nixon’s public stance on cannabis.

The case of Timothy Leary, the LSD researcher and counterculture icon, exemplifies Nixon’s public approach to drug enforcement. In March 1970, Leary received a draconian sentence of up to 10 years in prison for possessing less than an ounce of marijuana. Rather than viewing this as an excessive punishment, Nixon doubled down. As he told his Chief of Staff H.R. Haldeman in May 1970, “I want a goddamn strong statement on marijuana. By God we are going to hit the marijuana thing, and I want to hit it right square in the puss.”

Nixon’s public rhetoric often took on racist overtones, particularly when discussing drug use among minority communities. He frequently associated drug use with African Americans and other minorities, using coded language to appeal to white voters’ fears and prejudices. This racialized approach to drug policy was later confirmed by Nixon’s domestic policy chief, John Ehrlichman, who admitted in a 1994 interview that the War on Drugs was designed to target “the antiwar left and black people.”

However, behind closed doors, a different Nixon emerged. Recently uncovered audio recordings reveal a man who privately held much more nuanced views on marijuana. In a March 1973 recording, Nixon candidly admitted, “I know nothing about marijuana. I know that it’s not particularly dangerous; I know most of the kids are for legalizing it.”

This private acknowledgment stands in stark contrast to his public actions and statements. Nixon even expressed misgivings about harsh marijuana penalties, telling John Ehrlichman, “The penalties are ridiculous. I have no problem with the fact that there should be, there should be an evaluation of penalties on it, and there should not be penalties that, you know, like in Texas where people get 10 years for marijuana. That’s wrong.”

In another recording from September 1972, Nixon admitted to being in favor of “modification of penalties in many areas” related to drug offenses, but noted that he didn’t “talk about it anymore.” This suggests a calculated political decision to maintain a tough public stance on drugs, even while privately harboring doubts about the wisdom of such policies.

The disconnect between Nixon’s public and private personas on drug policy is striking and deeply troubling. While publicly championing a war that would lead to the arrest and incarceration of millions of Americans, particularly from minority communities, Nixon privately acknowledged the relative safety of marijuana and the excessive nature of drug penalties. This dichotomy raises serious questions about the true motivations behind the War on Drugs and the lasting impact of Nixon’s public policies on American society.

The ramifications of Nixon’s Controlled Substances Act (CSA) continue to reverberate through American society, more than half a century after its inception. This legislation has fundamentally altered the fabric of the United States, creating criminals out of otherwise law-abiding citizens for non-violent offenses. Perhaps even more insidiously, it has provided law enforcement with broad powers to seize assets from individuals suspected of drug crimes, often without due process or even a conviction.

One of the most troubling aspects of this policy is civil asset forfeiture, which allows law enforcement to confiscate property they believe is connected to criminal activity. This practice has led to numerous abuses, with innocent people having their possessions seized simply because of proximity to alleged drug activity. A stark example of this overreach occurred recently when a Sheriff’s department seized cash trucks from legal cannabis dispensaries. While the company eventually recovered their funds, this incident highlights the ongoing tension between state-level cannabis legalization and federal prohibition.

The human cost of these policies is staggering. Tens of thousands of individuals remain incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses, their lives derailed by laws rooted in Nixon’s public stance on drugs. These are not just statistics; they represent shattered families, lost opportunities, and communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs.

So why should we care about the disparity between Nixon’s private beliefs and public actions? This disconnect exposes the fundamental hypocrisy underpinning the entire War on Drugs. If even the architect of these policies privately acknowledged that marijuana was “not particularly dangerous” and that the penalties were “ridiculous,” it calls into question the entire rationale behind cannabis prohibition.

Nixon’s private admission that he favored “modification of penalties in many areas” related to drug offenses, while publicly championing harsh measures, is particularly damning. It suggests that the severe approach to drug policy was not based on a genuine belief in its necessity or efficacy, but rather on political expediency. This revelation should prompt us to critically re-examine the foundations of our current drug policies.

If the “Father of Prohibition” himself didn’t believe we should be so harsh in our punishments, it’s high time we rethink our entire strategy. The disconnect between Nixon’s private views and public policies underscores the need for a fact-based, compassionate approach to drug policy that prioritizes public health over punitive measures.

Moreover, this discrepancy between private beliefs and public actions is deeply troubling in a leader of a nation. It erodes public trust and undermines the integrity of our democratic institutions. We cannot afford to have leaders who advocate one thing publicly while holding contradictory views privately, especially on issues that have such profound impacts on citizens’ lives and liberties.

The revelations about Nixon’s private views on cannabis should serve as a catalyst for change. They provide compelling evidence that our current approach to drug policy is not just ineffective, but was built on a foundation of political manipulation rather than genuine concern for public welfare. As we grapple with the ongoing consequences of the War on Drugs, including mass incarceration, racial disparities in enforcement, and the erosion of civil liberties, we must use this knowledge to push for meaningful reform.

It’s time to align our drug policies with scientific evidence and principles of justice, rather than political expediency. The hypocrisy revealed in Nixon’s private statements should embolden us to challenge the status quo and work towards a more rational, humane approach to drug policy – one that doesn’t criminalize personal choices and destroy lives over a substance that even the architect of prohibition privately admitted was “not particularly dangerous.”

NIXON ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, READ ON…

IS IT TIME TO END THE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ACT?

Whether you bought your cannabis or dried it yourself, there’s a good chance it got wet accidently. This might have happened by mistake or because the cannabis was washed purposely to eliminate contaminants and enhance its flavor. Regardless, it’s disheartening to devote time, money, or effort just to wind up with a useless product. But do not worry—there are solutions.

There is a narrow line between slightly moist buds and perfect stickiness, which some people prefer.

If your cannabis squishes when lightly squeezed, it’s likely overly damp. Buds should feel somewhat sticky because to the resin (which contains the cannabinoids), but they should bounce back slightly when squeezed rather than crush.

Wet cannabis may seem sticky, but it will not adhere to your fingertips. You’re seeking for buds with a honey-coated texture, comparable to baklava. If they feel wet or spongy, you have a problem.

Common Issues With Wet Cannabis

Difficult to Light 

It’s no surprise that wet cannabis is hard to ignite. If you can’t light it, you can’t smoke it.

Mold Risk 

Excess moisture, as explained in *How to Dry and Cure Cannabis*, complicates pot storage and can lead to mold. Smoking moldy cannabis is risky because it contains germs and fungus that can harm your respiratory system and increase your risk of pneumonia.

Bad Taste

If you somehow manage to smoke damp weed, it won’t taste great. It’s like smoking uncured cannabis—definitely not pleasant.

The Risks Of  Wet Weed

While smoking wet pot is not always harmful to your health, the length of time the bud remains wet can make a significant effect. A damp atmosphere is ideal for mould, fungus, and bacteria. So, if you keep your cannabis wet for too long, you may get more than you bargained for. Smoking mouldy cannabis can cause headaches, lung issues, and even pneumonia. As a result, if your weed became wet, it is safer to dry it straight away.

Regardless of whatsoever drying method you use, it is critical to examine your marijuana for mold before and after drying. If it has a nasty odor—like leftovers from last week—or if you notice something clearly growing on it, it’s better to toss it away. Now let’s look at what you can do if your marijuana becomes moist.

How to Dry Out Wet Cannabis

To save your damp weed, dry it out with moisture-absorbing ways. Whether you’re a grower who didn’t properly cure it, it got caught in the rain, you inadvertently spilled something on it, or it’s just unusually humid outdoors, there are several reasons why your cannabis may be storing too much moisture. Fortunately, there are several solutions to the problem.

Rice Drying Method

If you’ve ever spilled a drink on your phone, you’re probably familiar with this trick. It turns out uncooked rice isn’t just for saving electronics—it can help with wet weed, too. Place your wet buds in a bowl or bag, then cover them completely with dry rice.

The rice will draw out the excess moisture, helping your buds return to their ideal state. Depending on how wet your weed is, leave it in the rice for at least 24 hours. If it’s still damp when you check, give it another day. Just make sure to seal the container, and let the rice do the work!

Put a Paper Over the Problem

If your marijuana became wet, don’t worry—you can easily repair it with a paper bag. Simply place your moist buds in a closed paper bag and store them somewhere cool and dry. If you have a dehumidifier, now is an excellent time to utilize it. The paper bag circulates air while protecting your blooms from trichome-damaging light.

To increase moisture absorption, wrap your cannabis with paper towels before placing it in the bag. The paper towels will help absorb the extra wetness. Replace the towels and rotate your weed every several hours, checking for mold. This also helps to remove any trapped dampness from the bag.

Revive Your Damp Weed

If you’re a grower, you’re no stranger to the challenges of battling moisture and mold. After a successful harvest, properly curing your buds is essential. The same curing tools can also help remove moisture from buds that have become too damp. If your weed is fully soaked, start with the rice method. But if it’s just a bit moist, try placing a humidipak in your airtight container.

Avoid Cutting Corners

It’s tempting to use heat to hasten the drying process of damp weed. Ultimately, you most likely want to smoke it as soon as possible. It’s important to avoid shortcuts that utilize heat or light, though.

Your weed’s quality can be diminished by using a blow dryer, an oven, or leaving it outside in the sun. Terpenes and cannabinoids are broken down by light and heat, which lessens their taste and efficacy. You might lose strength in the process of gaining time. Furthermore, you run the danger of over-drying your buds, which makes for a harsher, less pleasurable smoke.

Moisture Prevention: Proper Weed Storage

Wet weed can be unpleasant at best, and downright destructive at worst (hello, mold!). While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to prevent excess moisture from ruining your stash. The key is to keep it in the Goldilocks zone—not too wet, not too dry. Freshness starts with proper storage. Keep your cannabis in an airtight container, stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Simple, right?

Mason jars are a solid option, but for optimal care, consider investing in a specialized container like the CVault. It’s airtight, blocks light, and comes with a humidipak to keep your weed fresh longer. Just avoid plastic baggies—you’re a cannabis enthusiast, and dime bags are a thing of the past.

Bottom Line

If your cannabis gets wet, it’s crucial to act quickly to dry it out to avoid mold and maintain quality. Use methods like the rice drying technique or paper bag with paper towels to absorb moisture. Avoid using heat sources as they can degrade the weed’s quality. Proper storage in airtight containers and maintaining a cool, dry environment will help prevent future moisture issues. Always check for mold and other contaminants before consuming. By following these steps, you can preserve your cannabis’s flavor and potency.

GOT SOME WEED WEED, READ ON…

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