Partnering With Last Prisoner Project
June 10, 2020 · Pax LabsThe War on Drugs disproportionately impacts black communities. Today, more than 40,000 prisoners are incarcerated for cannabis-related crimes and there are more arrests for cannabis possession each year than for all violent crimes combined. As a brand in the cannabis space, we’re working to help end these injustices.
We’re partnering with the Last Prisoner Project (LPP) — the national advocacy organization with a singular goal: to bring about the day when the last cannabis prisoner on the planet is released, welcomed home and supported. Launched last fall (and co-founded by cannabis rights activist and co-founder of Harborside, Steve DeAngelo), LPP takes a multifaceted approach: intervention, advocacy, and awareness.
In Their Own Words
INTERVENTIONThe Last Prisoner Project focuses on three key criminal justice reform initiatives: release, record clearing, and reentry. While a core focus of the project is to free cannabis prisoners, data shows that released individuals are destined to fail without the proper resources in place. Reentry can be incredibly difficult and two-thirds of released prisoners will be arrested again within three years. Additionally, a criminal record can be a significant barrier to employment, housing, financial assistance, and more. This strategy allows our constituents to find FULL freedom.
ADVOCACYLPP is seizing on the current momentum surrounding criminal justice reform to promote legislation that ensures that all cannabis prisoners walk free. The Last Prisoner Project advocates on the state and federal level in the U.S. and around the globe on behalf of those criminalized for the use of cannabis.
AWARENESSThe Project also leverages connections with celebrity influencers, entertainers, and musicians to spread public awareness about our mission. We host events as well as participate in industry conferences, trade shows, and music festivals to educate citizens and industry participants about the problem and our reform efforts.
What's Next
We’re working with LPP to establish a long-term partnership. We’re kicking off this partnership by donating $25,000 and creating education for our employees and our followers. We commit to using our platform in support of progress.