DECRIMINALIZE NATURE
JACKSON, MI
A local chapter of the Decriminalize Nature organization building community and transforming legislation in Jackson, MI.
Learn about our chapter, connect with us online and join our local movement!
Decriminalize Nature Jackson Welcomes You!
Jackson, Michigan is a vibrant and beautiful community, but one that is in need of healing.
Decriminalization of entheogens would allow the people of Jackson to safely access these alternative medicines.
Many communities in Michigan have already embraced decriminalization through City Council Decrees or Ballot initiatives, and we are asking you to help Jackson keep up.
Many of our residents cannot afford to travel to areas in Michigan where these substances are legal. These residents should not be deprived of the ability to access these medicines in the safety of their own homes and communities simply because the leadership in Jackson continues to prohibit it.
What are Entheogens?
Entheogens can refer to any substance used in a religious, shamanic, or spiritual context, or more broadly to any psychoactive substance used for its spiritual or religious effects.
What do we mean by “decriminalizing”?
Allowing for individuals to have small amounts of these sacred substances for personal use without the fear of being prosecuted or going to jail. Many people have found these substances to be extremely helpful in treating addiction, a myriad of mental health conditions, and even in end of life therapy.
Connect with Decriminalize Nature in Jackson
Email Us: alina@seedcellar.com
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OUR MISSION
Improve human health and well-being by decriminalizing and expanding access to entheogenic plants and fungi through political and community organizing, education and advocacy.
OUR VISION
We envision happier, healthier individuals and communities reconnected to nature and entheogenic plant and fungi traditions and practices.
OUR PURPOSE
To decriminalize entheogenic plants, restore our root connection to nature, and improve human health and well-being.
Why Decriminalize Entheogenic Plants?
The government has no legitimate authority to restrict access to plants and fungi. These natural substances were criminalized under the Nixon administration based on politics, not science. While some organizations seek approval through federal agencies like the DEA and FDA, Decriminalize Nature believes growing, gathering, and gifting entheogens is a basic human right.
Decriminalizing these sacred plants and fungi allows communities to reconnect with their ancient uses, free from government and corporate control. People should have the freedom to heal, pursue personal and spiritual growth, and explore consciousness on their own terms. Criminalization has caused stigma, job loss, and incarceration—we aim to end that.
There are 4 main types of entheogenic plants and fungi, each with their own benefits and properties.
MUSHROOMS
(PSILOCYBIN & PSILOCIN)
Treats PTSD, depression, and addiction
AYAHUASCA
(DMT/MAOI)
Treating PTSD and addiction
CACTI
(MESCALINE)
Treats alcoholism
IBOGA
(IBOGAINE)
Treats withdrawal symptoms in addiction treatments
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OUR RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION 2023-XX
WHEREAS, entheogenic plants, casually referred to as magic mushrooms, DMT, and psilocybin, have been
found to benefit psychological and physical wellness; and
WHEREAS, these plants, defined here as the full spectrum of plants and fungi that include the following types
of compounds – indole amines, tryptamines, and phenethylamines – have historically been sacred to certain
human cultures and human religions for thousands of years; and
WHEREAS, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, post-traumatic stress, chronic depression, post-partem
depression, severe anxiety, grief, and other debilitating conditions are present in our community; and
WHEREAS, the use of entheogenic plants have been shown by scientific studies, clinical studies, traditional
practices, and an ever-growing population of laypersons with anecdotal evidence to be beneficial and safe in
addressing these conditions; and
WHEREAS, individuals seeking to improve their health and well-being through the use of entheogenic plants fear arrest and prosecution due to current prohibitions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Jackson has other issues for the use of its funds, staff, and public safety resources that take a higher priority than the enforcement against individuals using entheogenic plants; and
WHEREAS, the entheogenic plant practices of certain groups are already explicitly protected in the United States under the principle of religious freedom and the United Nations considers entheogenic plant material used for religious purposes as excluded from its list of Schedule 1 narcotics;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Jackson City Council declares that it shall be the policy of the City of Jackson that the investigation and arrest of persons for planting, cultivating, purchasing, distributing, or possessing entheogenic plants should be the lowest law enforcement priority for the City of Jackson; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution does not authorize or enable any of the aforementioned activities on school grounds, while driving or operating machinery, or by individuals younger than 18 years of age; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Jackson City Council calls upon the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney to cease prosecution of persons involved in the use of entheogenic plants designated by the federal Controlled Substance Act.
SPEAKING GUIDE FOR MEETINGS
Where: City Hall 2nd Floor City Council Chambers of Jackson City Hall, 161 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201
When: 6:15pm
April 15th
April 29th
May 13th
May 27th
June 10th
July 15
Aug 19th
September 16th
September 30th
October 14th
October 28th
November 18th
December 16th
What are we doing?
We are asking that the city council review the resolution materials we have provided to them, and that they put the resolution on the next agenda. The resolution is asking for the Decriminalization of Entheogens, meaning individuals will not be prosecuted for personal use. We are not asking for legalization.
Why do we need to speak at the meeting?
To show the city council that there is a significant interest and benefit to decriminalization. A consistent show of speakers at the meetings will demonstrate the need for the city council to act. To inspire others to speak.
How does this work?
Upon arrival at city hall, you will fill out a slip indicating your intention to talk that must be submitted at the start of the meeting.
Your name will be called in the order the slips were submitted, and you will have three minutes to make your statement. You don’t have to use all three minutes and there is a timer visible while you talk so you know how much time you have left.
What should I say?
We are all making one collective argument for decriminalization, but we all have slightly different reasons for wanting that to happen. You can share your story, share research that might be compelling to a council member or others listening, or help read statements from people who are unable to speak at the meetings.
What shouldn’t I say?
We are not asking for legalization, just decriminalization.
Avoid long personal anecdotes that are unrelated to any of the talking points or give the impression that entheogens could be harmful or dangerous.
Avoid giving extremely specific details or providing information that could be incriminating for yourself and others.
Things to consider to help you write your statement:
Why did you/do you personally (or someone you love) use psychedelics or become interested in them?
Why do you believe Jackson should decriminalize entheogens?
Compare your reasons to the list of talking points. Mention specific examples of research and studies that help prove your point.
STATEMENT OUTLINE FOR MEETINGS
You can use this template for making a statement at the city council meetings.
Hello my name is:
My Address is:
I am here today to ask you to consider the resolution provided to you entitled ____________________.
This resolution would allow for the decriminalization of entheogens. I am asking on behalf of myself and other residents of Jackson for a member of the city council to step forward and submit the resolution for consideration at the next city council meeting.
We believe Entheogens are beneficial/ should be decriminalized because:
This opinion has been backed by: Research/ article/ study summary
Please: take the time to read the resolution provided/ submit resolution to the rest of the council for consideration.
Thank you
Example:
Took mushrooms to learn more about themselves, would like to decriminalize so they don’t get arrested.
Hello my name is Sally and my address is 1620 E. Michigan Ave. I am asking the Jackson City Council to add the resolution “Decrim Jackson” to the next city council meeting. I first used psychedelics while on a journey to learn more about myself and my purpose in life. My experiences with psychedelics have helped me to feel connected to my community and my environment and have helped me define my purpose in life. I was not alone in my experience. A 1962 study at Harvard Divinity School found that a single dose of psilocybin mushrooms led nearly every participant to have a profound and meaningful religious experience. That experiment is commonly called the Good Friday experiment. In 2002 Johns Hopkins completed a similar study and found that in a 14-month follow-up, over half of the participants rated the experience among the top five most meaningful spiritual experiences in their lives, and considered the experience to have increased their personal well-being and life satisfaction.
I believe that everyone should have access to these tools to have these positive experiences in the comfort of their own homes. The greatest risk to most users of entheogens at this time is the risk of arrest or prosecution.
Residents of Wayne and Washtenaw counties can use and possess small “personal use” amounts of psilocybin without the fear of having their lives destroyed by the legal system. We believe that the residents of Jackson should have the same rights as those other Michiganders.
There is empirical evidence that entheogens can improve people’s feelings of well being and improve their quality of life, and this city council can help ensure that the people who elected them have access to this basic human right.
Please submit the resolution to the council for consideration at the next meeting. I look forward to seeing you there.
EMAIL TEMPLATE FOR CONTACTING COUNCIL MEMEBERS
Hello, [Insert Name]
The people of Jackson want to decriminalize entheogens, and we want your help.
What are Entheogens?
Entheogens can refer to any substance used in a religious, shamanic, or spiritual context, or more broadly to any psychoactive substance used for its spiritual or religious effects.
Which Entheogens are we talking about?
- Psilocybe Mushrooms- Treats PTSD, depression, and addiction
- Ayahuasca- Used in traditional medicine and is effective at treating PTSD and addiction.
- Mescaline- A cactus that can be used to treat alcoholism.
- Iboga- A plant root used for withdrawal symptoms in addiction treatment.
What do we mean by “decriminalizing”?
Allowing for individuals to have small amounts of these sacred substances for personal use without the fear of being prosecuted or going to jail. Many people have found these substances to be extremely helpful in treating addiction, a myriad of mental health conditions, and even in end of life therapy.
How would decriminalizing entheogens benefit Jackson?
Jackson is a vibrant and beautiful community, but one that is in need of healing. Decriminalization would allow the people of Jackson to safely access these alternative medicines. Many communities in Michigan have already embraced decriminalization through City Council Decrees or Ballot initiatives, and we are asking you to help Jackson keep up. Many of our residents cannot afford to travel to areas in Michigan where these substances are legal. These residents should not be deprived of the ability to access these medicines in the safety of their own homes and communities simply because the leadership in Jackson continues to prohibit it.
Want to Learn more? Check out the Decriminalize Nature Jackson website at: DecriminalizeNature.org/jackson-mi
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
DONATE MONEY
Financial resources are needed to help us move forward! We invest every dollar into our national and local efforts.
One-time and monthly donations are also accepted and much appreciated!
CONTACT COUNCIL MEMBERS
You can find a conversation template below to make it easy!
Please personalize it if you can, including your own story of that of people you know.
FOLLOW UP REGULARLY
After you’ve reached out to your council member, keep in touch with them a couple times each month with additional information to keep the movement in the forefront of their minds.
You could send excerpts of articles with links to them, media reports and more. Get inspired from our social media posts for ideas!
CONNECT & NETWORK
Take time to reach out to friends, family, and like-minded individuals via email, phone call or a quick cup of coffee!
You can discuss the movement, spread awareness, explore different sides of the debate and generally sharpen your thinking, communications, and persuasion skills.
LEND YOUR TALENTS
Are you a petitioner, recruiter, digital marketer, writer, PR guru, event organizer, fundraiser, grassroots organizer, government affairs professional, networker, connector, or have other experience that you think could be helpful?
Email us at alina@seedcellar.com with some brief background info and your phone number and let’s chat!