chewing cocoa leaves

"Mistakes are an unavoidable part of human history, but sometimes we have the opportunity to correct them. It is time for the international community to reverse its misguided policy toward the coca leaf."

this is a quote taken from the article written about the abolishment of the cocoa leaf as a legal substance. In 1961, the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs placed the coca leaf in the same category with cocaine, and beginning the 25 year date in which this leaf will be considered illegal.

However, since this meeting was held, much controversy has spurred about the tradition of chewing cocoa leaves (especially those with Bolivian ethnic backgrounds, who have been practicing this as a cultural identity and common practice) who will soon be persecuted for traditon and beliefs.

Our country, which has dubbed itself "the melting pot" of people must consider more than just the cocoa leaf itself. By illegalizing its use, the country is making a much broader, and more complex statement. It is, in a way, disregarding a tradition of an entire culture. Just as the ongoing debate with other drugs (marijuana, for example), is an issue that runs deeper than the leaf, or the abolishment of its use itself.

It must take into account the people, and find a level of respect for everyone's opinions, beliefs, and traditions in making this decision. It is true that, almost with every law it makes, a country will face people who do not agree or support it. However, when it is an entire race or ethnicity feels as though it is going against their beliefs and ways, it may demand special attention in making this call.

Our country, with its stress on individuality, acceptance of all peoples, and ideology that freedom to practice own beliefs must also make its decisions with this in mind...

just my thoughts...