My Journey South- People
by Veronica Castillo
I spent time in Orlando and it is usually great. The thing is, I visited after spending almost 2 years on the west coast. This means, visiting after being in and around Cannabis freedom.
Sure, the law says no public consumption; and landlords can dictate whether you can smoke in the space rented or not; and in some states, one can get a ticket for open containers- but even with that- the culture of the people is overall- love for the plant.
The stigma in the south is still very much-Cannabis is the devil’s lettuce.
The scent of Cannabis will still generate looks of disapproval. And when Cannabis dreaming, you’re quickly reminded that the region just- doesn’t love Cannabis the way that it is loved out west.
I was in the car with my mom and sister, and drove through a neighborhood that appeared to have my vibe. It was a nice quiet area with a park and venetian architect. There was an apartment/ condo building that I loved. The balconies were huge and wrapped around each unit. I said “goodness- the highs I’d get to on one of those beautiful balconies”. My mom reminded me that the scent would not make people happy.
It reminded me that I was far away from Oregon, a place where in a city like Portland, the scent of Cannabis brings a smile to the face of the person passing. In a place like Florida- what the government says is usually the way things go. When I say that I mean- if the government calls this plant dangerous, then it must be.
Though medicinally legal, the appreciation for the plant still has a long way to go. It’s hard for people to gain appreciation access. Florida’s medicinal program is expensive, and I believe, only accessible to “documented” persons.
Those wanting to adhere to the American way, will likely side with the government. So, when I come through- my unapologetic, lover of Cannabis, hippie self tends to be looked at as “the left”.
