Friday, September 20, 2013

The Thought-Provoking Grow Jamaica Movie Raises Awareness Of The Benefits Of Legalizing Ganja

By Dale Peck


"Ganja" the popular name for the marijuana plant amongst the Jamaican Rastafarian and reggae sub-cultures has always held a special place of honor for its many perceived benefits. These are further explored in the book "Grow Jamaica" written by Reverend Leeroy Campbell, which provides solid reasons as to why this herb should be made a legal crop. The Grow Jamaica movie is based on the opinions expressed in the book and further elaborates on them in an engaging one-hour long documentary that examines this issue as seen through the eyes of several Jamaican people.

Reverend Campbell passed away in 2009, but during his life he dedicated many years to studying the cannabis plant and its effects. In the book he discusses the history of cannabis and hemp, its various uses, and how it became criminalized. He purports that it should be legalized to grow in Jamaica as this crop would surely help the country's economic situation.

Those concepts introduced by the book, are further fleshed-out in the film version. Various Jamaican with different occupations including economists, politicians, doctors, and police officers, offer their supporting opinions in favor of Campbell's proposition. The Reverend himself also speaks in the film, explaining his beliefs in a credible way that clearly reveals what a knowledgeable and gifted individual he was.

Other guests who speak up on the topic include such locally recognized figures as actor and broadcaster Oliver Samuels, musician Stephen Marley, and Dr. Bragga. These men each have an enlightening and interesting perspective on the implications of legalizing ganja, which is presented factually, yet humorously.

Campbell spent years working as a teacher and counselor and truly knows how to connect with and motivate his audience. The information he presents is factual, based on studies he has conducted on the marijuana plant. He explains how legalizing it as a crop can have a profound impact on the economy of Jamaica since it plays a role in so many industries, from food to tourism.

Hemp is related to marijuana but its concentration of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is considerably less, so it does not produce the same psychological effects as ganja does. It is a durable plant that can be used to make construction materials, a cotton-like fiber, environmentally-safe biofuels, and paper, which cuts down on deforestation. A hemp crop can grow rather quickly and does not need pesticides or frequent watering.

There are also health benefits associated with hemp. The seeds and oil contain a high amount of essential fatty acids which are needed by the body for many functions and can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Hemp is also not legal to grow and sell, just like all other types of cannabis unfortunately in spite of these qualities.

The Grow Jamaica movie was selected and screened at the BFI and Flash Point Film Festivals, and since then has become a topic of discussion by many critics and viewers for its poignant approach to this touch subject. Perhaps one day, if society will take into consideration the points it raises, Campbell's vision will be realized.




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