Congrats to Annlyn from BZHypeMeter on her newly won crown. There is no doubt that she was the best and most rounded contestant doing well in every category; great job Lyn and also congrats to Cricel, Tyler and all the other contestants for putting on a great show.

                

 There is no doubt that Belize is a melting pot of different cultures and religions. The Constitution of Belize which governs our country advocates for equality among all Belizeans whether by birth or naturalization. Chapter 4, Pt 2 of our Constitution allows for each person to manifest his religion, however, many religions, such as the Rastafarians who use marijuana as a part of their practice are being deprived their right to do so. As a people everyone is equal and should be given the freedom to exercise his religion as he sees it fit. If marijuana is a sacred part of a religion then why should it be illegal in a country advocating for equality?
Additionally, the ‘illegal’ hemp plant from which marijuana is derived is a very useful and valuable natural resource. It is a very nutritious plant with seeds containing essential fatty acids important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Its fibres are useful in industry because it strengthens concrete and may be used to create fabric. In its natural habitat it clears groundwater of impurities and is an efficient biological method of weed control.
Not only this, but it is known for its medicinal uses because it stimulates appetite and relieves nausea in cancer and AIDS patients. Even sick people yearn for a prolonged and healthy life which can be achieved through the use of marijuana so why should they be deprived of this?

When considering the legalization of anything, the government must ensure that it is in the best interest of the country and will contribute to the progression of the community. It may be questioned, is marijuana an asset to our country? Marijuana is a drug. A drug, defined by Encarta dictionary, is an illegal substance that affects the functioning of living cells and is often addictive and causes changes in behavior and perception. This change in behavior and perception, however, is in no positive way.
Secondly, marijuana has many ill consequences to the user. It creates an illusion in the mind as thinking becomes disrupted by fragmentary ideas and memories. It can furthermore cause confusion and loss of self-control. Not only this, but it should be noted that because marijuana is a drug, its intoxication impairs judgment, comprehension, memory, speech, problem-solving ability and reaction time. Clearly it interferes with the proper function of the brain and mind which is the intellectual part of all human beings.

Marijuana legalization is a controversy which countries all over the world are faced with. Share your opinion: do you think Marijuana should be legalized?

By O. Flores

Should marijuana be legal in Belize? Join the debate later this week, after the model contest is finished, as we discuss points for and against.