Sunday 22 September 2013

The Thought-Provoking Grow Jamaica Movie Raises Awareness Of The Benefits Of Legalizing Ganja

By Dale Peck


Marijuana, which is also known as "ganja" is much celebrated and holds a special place in Jamaica's reggae music and Rastafarian sub-cultures. In the book entitled "Grow Jamaica" by Reverend Leeroy Campbell, the many health benefits and uses of this plant are explored, supporting his argument that it should be legalized as a crop. A Grow Jamaica movie has also been released which builds on the ideas introduced by the book, in a 60-minute documentary that shares the opinions of several Jamaican people.

Before his death in 2009, Reverend Campbell had devoted many years to conducting research on the nature and effects of the cannabis plant. The book talks about the history of hemp and cannabis, its many uses, and the events which lead to its criminalization. He argues that legalizing marijuana as a crop would give Jamaica a much needed boost in their economy.

The film brings to life the ideas examined in the book. The viewpoints of Jamaicans from different walks of life such as doctors, police officers, politicians, and economists are presented in favor of Reverend Campbell's argument for the legalization of ganja. Campbell himself appears in the film to discuss his beliefs, which give the audience a clear idea of his credibility and exactly what an educated, talented, and accomplished man he was.

He also has several guest speakers weighing in on the subject, who are recognized and respected by the Jamaican community, they are namely Dr. Bragga, the musician Stephen Marley, and the broadcaster and actor Oliver Samuels. These men each present their own take on the ramifications of legalizing ganja in a way that presents the facts in a funny and anecdotal way.

Campbell spent years working as a teacher and counselor and truly knows how to connect with and motivate his audience. The information he presents is factual, based on studies he has conducted on the marijuana plant. He explains how legalizing it as a crop can have a profound impact on the economy of Jamaica since it plays a role in so many industries, from food to tourism.

Hemp belongs to the marijuana family but has a lower amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive chemical responsible for the typical effects of marijuana. There are many uses for this plant including biofuels which are environmentally-friendly, constructions materials, a cotton-like fiber, and paper, which helps save trees. It is a fast-growing crop that is relatively low-maintenance and does not require excessive pesticides.

There are also health benefits associated with hemp. The seeds and oil contain a high amount of essential fatty acids which are needed by the body for many functions and can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Hemp is also not legal to grow and sell, just like all other types of cannabis unfortunately in spite of these qualities.

The Flash Point and BFI Film Festivals have selected and shown the Grow Jamaica movie, and it has attracted a considerable following from both viewers and critics. Its bold message certainly has great potential, and the day may come, if the decision makers' opinion of ganja can be changed, that it may be actualized.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment