In Defense of Hemp

"Cannabis cannot kill you, and therefore there is no justification behind its illegality," says Jordan Baldwin, organizer of Saturday's Hemp Fest. "The cannabis-hemp plant is being held captive through misinformation and propaganda campaigns, ignorance, peer pressure and bullying. Innocent humans and their families are being terrorized. This must stop, and the time is now." Clearly, Baldwin isn't the stereotype of a lethargic stoner. But even though Hemp Fest carries an activist component, with speakers and information booths, it also provides a full lineup of hemp-friendly acts. Rock bands Kan Eyed and Dastardly Villain go from noon to 2 p.m., reggae artists 77 Jefferson and the Irietions follow from 2 to 3:30 p.m., and rappers LJ, Sliccs, Influence/Sinsayshon, Keys and Skiem provide the closing kick from 3:30 to 5. The free event takes place at Southmoreland Park (Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard and Oak). For more information, call 816-536-5067.
Sat., Aug. 30, 12-5 p.m., 2008