Vigilant in Vegas

By Debbie Dedmon, November Coalition Leader

It has been a fast-pace year here in Vegas for the drug war reform movement. This year I became an effective local activist, through networking with others in the reform movement, and made new contacts by getting active in local and state politics. The voter initiative to regulate recreational use of marijuana, Question 9, did not pass, but I learned a lot working on the campaign. The skills I possess now will be used in the future. My thanks to Rob Kampia and MPP for the efforts made on behalf of justice here in Nevada, and the opportunity to learn so much about the political process.

This summer I worked with Rock the Vote as a street team leader. The organization got me into shows, and I registered about 300 people to vote, expanding our contacts in the state. I went on the radio twice and gave speeches statewide, most notably the address to the distinguished League of Women Voters, debating the pro-side of question 9 to them. The November Coalition was also re-introduced to this receptive group of progressive women.

I will be serving as secretary for the Vegas Students for a Sensible Drug Policy next semester, one of the most active student groups in the country. Thirty of us went to the SSDP conference in Anaheim, California in November where I shared a panel with other reform leaders and set up a November Coalition display. I introduced November Coalition to those who would not have known us, and tied it to the idea that love and despair are great motivators, and that our greatest untapped reservoir of potential supporters are family members of drug war prisoners.

I talked about how marijuana had been the primary focus for reformers, many of whom think this war stops with 'weed'. I shared with the audience that this focus leaves prisoners of other drugs with little hope, and fewer people advocating for broader reform. I was so proud to represent the November Coalition, and wore a suit for the occasion. Our reputation preceded me, and more have joined our cause.

Next year there will be more work to reform the Higher Education Act and Sodexo will be challenged -no more options - students do not want to further Sodexo profits, subsidizing private prison construction and we want them off campus. We are having training on how to encourage police to protect our 4th, 5th, and 6th amendment rights. I am also studying my courses, learning everything I can to serve our membership fully.

Vegas leaders will be planning toward the Journey for Justice visit to Vegas in the spring of 2003, when I'll finally meet Chuck and Nora face to face. Face it- I'm in it for the long haul. Thank you for letting me be a part of the November family.

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