Still fighting on 4-20

Photo: The Canadian Press

Cannabis activists say although this year's 4-20 celebrations across the country will likely be the last before recreational pot use becomes legal, there's still a lot to fight for.

The federal government has committed to making marijuana legal by the summer, but the task of regulating the sale and consumption of the drug has been handed down to the provinces and territories.

Lisa Campbell with the Ontario Cannabis Consumer and Retail Alliance said she doesn't think 4-20 events across the country will disappear with the new legalized system — but they will likely evolve.

"There is still a lot to fight for, including cannabis lounges, consumption spaces and having special events permits. But there comes a certain point where you can shout from the sidelines or you can put down your protest sign and have a chance to work with government to influence policy," Campbell said.

"For me and my activism, I've gone from fully disobeying the law and civil disobedience to now pausing my illicit activity and trying to find a way to work in the legal market."

The provinces have been rolling out their plans on regulating legalized pot. Ontario, for instance, intends to sell marijuana to people 19 and older in up to 150 stores run by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. Consumption in public spaces or workplaces will be banned.

Campbell said she wants to see a mixed retail model in the province, with regulated lounges and bars where marijuana can be purchased and consumed.

April 20 has long been a day to celebrate cannabis and the culture that surrounds it. In cities such as Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver, pot enthusiasts gather by the thousands in public squares, defying the authorities.

But Campbell noted that 4-20 isn't just about having a massive outdoor smokeout anymore; there are events such as cannabis business speeches from CEOs from publicly traded companies, as well as movie nights with cannabis edibles.

She did say, however, that she's concerned police will crack down harder on this year's 4-20 events.

"While legalization is exciting, I also think a lot of people are fearful," she says.