For years, the term 420 has had a special significance for those in the Cannabis Community. It was a day to call for change to the provisions of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and other legislation that banned cannabis use. But post legalization in Canada, is this day still relevant to cannabis culture?
Origin story
It’s common consensus that the term, 420 originated from a group of high schoolers in California who met after class at 4:20 p.m. to smoke a joint. Legend says that when they’d see each other in the hallways during the day, their codeword to each other was “420 Louis,” which meant their designated meeting spot to smoke- near a statue of Louis Pasteur, the French biologist who came up with the food preparing process known as pasteurization. Since then, events round the world are held on April 20th to commemorate Weed Day- from rallies to musical events to pipe exchanges, cannabis enthusiasts get together for a grand ol’ time.
Activism and celebration
In the United States, activists believe there’s still some work to be done as marijuana is legal in only eight states and according to their federal laws, it is still considered a “Schedule 1” drug, slotted in the same category as heroin. So, there’s reason to observe 420. But what about in legalized Canada?
For years, cannabis consumers have held protests and gathered on Parliament Hill and other important legislative buildings around the country to fight for the right to use cannabis. Though recreational cannabis is now legal in Canada, activists see that observing 420 is still relevant because there’s much left to fight for.
Coast to coast, Canadians are all set to bring in the first 420 event post-legalization. The iconic pot rally in Sunset Beach, 420 Vancouver, celebrates 25 years this year and organizers have called it a protest event, saying that the very fact that permits aren’t being granted to smoke a legal substance openly (smoking of any kind is banned in any Vancouver park) is reason enough to protest. They are inviting attendees this landmark year to enjoy some eclectic cannabis products, and to raise their voice against continued stigma attached to consumers who partake. Toronto will be hosting a free gathering/toke-up at Woodbine Park and the now well-known block party in Kensington Market.
With the cannabis industry growing steadily in Canada, recreational consumers have much to celebrate. There’s widespread excitement about the future and as such 420 for many has become an opportunity to reflect on the past and the long journey that has led to legalization.
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