Reclaiming Cannabis is Reclaiming Our Nation's Future.
“DS,” or the Dark Side, has labeled cannabis as a societal ill in the pursuit of economic interests. Their influence permeates our politics, economy, and media, embedding itself deeply within society. Industries like oil and pharmaceuticals have long viewed cannabis as a threat to their profits. After World War II, GHQ’s occupation policies suppressed the culture surrounding cannabis, ultimately making it illegal and contributing to the erosion of Japan’s traditions. The rise of neoliberal globalization in the 1990s further amplified these issues, as Japan’s postwar conservatives, acting as DS agents, championed economic liberalization and globalization. Over the last 30 years, this has not only widened inequality but also eroded traditional values in communities across Japan, leading to a further loss of culture and identity.
Reclaiming cannabis isn’t just about changing legal frameworks; it’s about revitalizing our culture and identity. Cannabis holds potential for medicinal use and offers an environmentally friendly approach to agriculture. Beyond economic gains, it can contribute to social equity and solutions for environmental issues.
The history of persecution symbolized by cannabis reflects both Japan, historically known as the “Land of Hemp,” and the influence of America. The struggle to reclaim cannabis that unfolded in Tokyo marked Japan’s first battle against the DS, using cannabis as a powerful symbol in the fight for cultural and social sovereignty.
Reclaiming cannabis is an act of reaffirming our identity and a step toward building our future. It allows us to reevaluate our culture and regain economic and social freedoms. The issue of cannabis transcends legal concerns, serving as a symbol for various cultural, historical, economic, and social challenges. Thus, reclaiming cannabis represents a crucial challenge in paving the way for our future.
In Japan, the roots of this issue trace back to the GHQ’s occupation policies 80 years ago, followed by the onset of neoliberal globalization 30 years ago. Now, as a final culmination, we face not just manipulation of information but a full-fledged information control complex. The DS believes it can strip away our culture, history, and pride.
Reclaiming cannabis means reclaiming both America and Japan. Strengthening our nation does not equate to enriching postwar conservatives or the DS. Instead, it involves recognizing the exploitative structures created by the DS and ensuring that each individual can reclaim a prosperous life. Cannabis serves as a powerful symbol in this struggle.