HomeMy WebLinkAbout042523 Resolution on entheogens________________________________
ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them.
________________________________
Dear County Commissioners,
From: Brittney Northrop, Port Townsend
I am writing to express my strong support for passing the resolution on entheogens.
These substances have a lengthy history of use in indigenous healing and spiritual ceremonies, and in Western psychology for the treatment of various conditions such as PTSD, depression,
and anxiety, and addiction.
Many recent studies have shown extremely promising results using entheogens to treat--and even cure--what were once considered untreatable, lifelong conditions. As we stare directly
into the face of our nation's opioid crisis, it would be simply irresponsible to deny the potential of entheogens to break the addictive cycle. Many former addicts cite the use of entheogens
as a mainstay in their recovery, and in preventing relapse.
Rather unfairly, these substances continue to be demonized at the federal level, evidenced by their placement in the same category as substances with little to no healing potential and
high potential for abuse (cocaine, heroin, etc.). Entheogens, conversely, have very little potential for abuse/misuse and high potential for medicinal use.
In our community, numerous people are using entheogens either on their own, or with other community members in ceremony. Many see this as a vital component to their overall health and
well-being.
Decriminalization reduces risks. It decreases the likelihood that a person will avoid seeking help out of fear of punishment. Decriminalization protects equitable access to medicines,
and protects personal agency and autonomy.
There are inherent risks in using any medicinal substance, legal or not. Decriminalization must go hand in hand with education and community outreach to address such risks openly, and
without punitive and carceral channels that result in individuals hiding their behavior and engaging in riskier activities.
Equally important to the decriminalization effort is equitable access to medicine. When these substances are highly regulated they become monetized, thus reducing access for all but
a few who are able to pay the expense. Poverty frequently goes hand in hand with addiction and other mental health disorders; gatekeeping the affordability of medicine is harmful to
individuals, and to the community. A community in which individuals can grow and use their own safe and non-addictive substances is a community that will thrive.
In my personal experience, entheogens have been an instrumental tool in healing trauma, and I have seen others benefit from their use in innumerable ways, as part of their physical,
emotional, mental, and spiritual healing processes.
It's my strong hope and encouragement that you will pass the resolution, in light of the many changes we are seeing across our nation that reflect a more open and honest exploration
of how to create healthier communities.
Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
Brittney Northrop
--
<https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/mail-sig/AIorK4xCa2x4JiITTE2WputeXFToMShbXuoxLYEbU2S9Yl3XxIVMeZ_8UxsnsgP6KQ6rvs7f3p2GYJ0>
Brittney Northrop, ND
Vital Elements Natural Medicine <http://www.vitalelementsnaturopathic.com>