Friday, September 20, 2013

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

By Dale Peck


The marijuana plant, or "ganja" as it is often called has long played a significant role in the reggae and Rastafarian cultures which originate in the Caribbean island of Jamaica. This natural herb has numerous health benefits and other uses which are examined in the book "Grow Jamaica" by Reverend Leeroy Campbell who presents a multifaceted argument for its legalization. This book inspired the production of a Grow Jamaica movie, a thought-provoking hour-long documentary which explores the implications of legalizing the herb through the eyes of various Jamaicans.

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.

He also has several guest speakers weighing in on the subject, who are recognized and respected by the Jamaican community, they are namely Dr. Bragga, the musician Stephen Marley, and the broadcaster and actor Oliver Samuels. These men each present their own take on the ramifications of legalizing ganja in a way that presents the facts in a funny and anecdotal way.

Campbell is a very effective speaker whom the audience can easily relate to and he has a greatly ability to motivate them, likely due to the many years he spent as a teacher and counselor. Rather than just making claims, his information is fact-based from research he has carried out on the cannabis plant. He sees the potential the legalization of hemp and cannabis has, as it would positively affect many parts of the economy and various industries, for instance food and tourism.

Hemp is a variety of marijuana with a low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, which is the psychoactive chemical present in cannabis. This plant itself is very useful, its strong fibers can be made into construction materials and environmentally-friendly biofuel alternatives. It can produce a material similar to cotton, and is also used to manufacture paper, saving trees. This crop grows quickly without the need for excessive pesticide use or watering.

The nutritional values of hemp are many as well. Its oil and seeds are a great source of essential fatty acids which are necessary for many bodily functions. They have been proven to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. Unfortunately, even hemp is lumped in with the other types of ganja, making it illegal to grow and sell too.

The Grow Jamaica movie has been featured at both the Flash Point and BFI Film Festivals and it has garnered considerable attention from critics and viewers alike. The impact of its message is potentially powerful both locally and globally and one day it may even possibly become a reality if the view of ganja can successfully be changed.




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