Report from Calgary
All week it called for rain on Saturday May 7, 2005 but when the day came it was bright sunshine and warm weather. Around 200 people gathered at Thompkins Park downtown for Calgary's first ever Million Marijuana March. We marched down the main streets of downtown chanting "Herbs not drugs!" and "Cures not wars!". Many supporters honked their horns in agreement and some people even joined the march off the street.We ended the march at Olympic Plaza where we were greeted by numerous police officers awaiting our arrival. After a brief discussion with the constable, we told the officers we respected what they have to do and that we know it is their job. We explained to them the cause of the march and most officers were supportive (except a couple). Everyone smoked freely throughout the march and even in front of the police and no arrests were made. At Olympic Plaza, Grant Krieger made an inspiring speech that left us all cheering. Grant's speech was followed by a quick speech from local Marijuana Party representative Logan Marshall.
There were t-shirts and glass bongs given away for Best Costume and Best Sign. The prizes were provided by some local shops including Hemporium, Bongs & Such, Grassroots and The Next Level. Overall the march was a big success with many already asking about next year. We can only look forward to making 2006's march bigger and better. Many thanks go to Cannabis Culture magazine as this march would not have occured without their help. Thank you so much.
Matthew Brown
Calgary Million Marijuana March Organizer