Today a group of likeminded individuals, from all walks of life, ages and ethnicities, joined together in an attempt to raise awareness for the legalisation of marijuana. They had previously been denied permission to use George Sq by Glasgow City Council but that did not stop them from setting up their tents. stalls and sound systems. A day of celebration was planned, a DJ performed a short set before the live music and speeches started.
However, some of the attendees viewed the event as a chance to party, smoke weed, have a drink and a bit of a dance. There was a genuine carnival atmosphere that made passers-by stop and find out what was going. I spoke to some of those who had attended to find out why they had come and what the aim of the protest was.
I also spoke to event organiser, Chris MacKenzie, who was insistent that the purpose of their demonstration was not to have a party and smoke weed, instead they wanted to spread their message and raise awareness. He did not condone people consuming cannabis at the event but said that he cannot be held responsible if individuals decide to.
There was a limited police presence who seemed happy to allow the event to proceed. All was peaceful and there was only one flare up of trouble involving the police. You can find the video by clicking here – https://jameshenryowens.wordpress.com/2015/04/20/police-make-an-arrest-at-420-event-glasgow/
Below is a short video of the event shot and edited by myself…
Peace and love fellow human
James Owens 