Let’s be honest, medical cannabis is not the most pressing issue in Washington these days. I have experienced firsthand from walking the halls of Congress, that while a majority of members are sympathetic to the needs of patients, most do not understand the issue of medical cannabis much less that there is a way forward.

If members do hear about cannabis policy at all these days, it is usually from lobbyists representing cannabis businesses and unfortunately medical cannabis much less patients are not on their agenda. Without hearing from you, there is no incentive for your members to learn about issues facing patients or find solutions to help them.

Americans for Safe Access has a legislative solution that we know will create safe and equitable access for patients and advance medical cannabis therapeutics. But we need your help to get it introduced and passed. Every member of Congress we have talked to supports the concept, but without pressure from their district, there is no chance of the legislation advancing.

WELCOME TO THE AUGUST MEDICAL CANNABIS RESET!

Every August, Congress leaves Washington to take the month off and spend time in their state. While they are home, they participate in town halls, attend events, host “meet and greets,” and spend more time with local press. This creates an opportunity for you to get medical cannabis on their radar!

ASA has created a variety of diverse activities to help you take advantage of this time and put us on strong footing when Congress returns to DC in the fall. So join thousands of medical cannabis advocates this August as we take advantage of Congress’ “August Recess” to make a powerful push for federal legislation. It’s time to make some noise and ensure medical cannabis policy is back on the federal agenda!

LET’S MAKE SOME NOISE AND RESET OUR COMMITMENT TO FEDERAL RIGHTS!

Yes! Count me in! Choose any of these activities for the month of August to ensure medical cannabis policy is back on the federal agenda!

BECOME A MEDICAL CANNABIS ADVOCACY EXPERT!

ASA has created a series of tools that you can use to better understand our federal legislative proposal, why it is needed, and how to talk about it! We are also offering an engaging online education series that you can tune into live or watch at your leisure. Host viewing parties, watch with friends, or dive in solo to deepen your knowledge about the critical issues surrounding cannabis policy.

TAKE THAT KNOWLEDGE AND TOOLS OUT FOR A SPIN!

REACH YOUR REPS AT HOME – Take the opportunity to connect with your federal representatives personally. Look for meet and greet events, town halls, or speaking engagements they might attend during the August Recess. Set up meetings at their local offices to discuss medical cannabis policy or organize rallies at their offices to demand support.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT – Spread the word by passing out flyers and signing up advocates at events or local cannabis businesses. Set up tables at gatherings and engage with the community to raise awareness. Host a house party or Zoom event to involve your friends and family in this crucial cause. Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to promote ASA campaigns effectively.

SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT – Every Wednesday, ASA will provide focused outreach messages for various social media channels. Share these messages and invite your network to participate too! Let’s create a viral wave of support for federal medical cannabis policy.

LOCAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT – While federal representatives are home, seize the opportunity to write a letter to the editor, highlighting the lack of federal action on medical cannabis. Reach out to local reporters and pitch stories about medical cannabis and your representative’s stance.

ONLINE ACTIONS – ASA will keep you informed with alerts for emailing elected officials, engaging in online petitions, and more. Let your voice be heard and impact change through the power of digital activism!

If you appreciate ASA’s work, join us:  sign up to get updates, become a member or donate today!