Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Woodstock veteran David Crosby has joined NORML's Advisory Board, which includes Top CelebStoners Willie Nelson, Tommy Chong, Woody Harrelson and Bill Maher.
In a blog post and email sent to NORML members and media, Crosby, who's best known for playing with rock royalty Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and the Byrds in the '60s and '70s, wrote on Oct. 19:
"Why have I decided to become involved with NORML? It’s simple. I’d like cannabis to be legal everywhere, and I – like the good folks at NORML – feel a responsibility to stick up for those people who've been punished as a result of this oppressive and senseless policy. That's why I’m partnering with NORML to lend my name and talents to help end this multi-decade failure that is marijuana prohibition.
"Let’s face it. I, like all of you, believe that people should not be arrested or go to jail for the responsible use of a substance that is objectively safer than alcohol, tobacco, or most prescription drugs. And I’ve looked at the success of states like Colorado and Oregon that have elected to move in a different direction. That's why I’m proud to become a part of America’s oldest and most well-recognized marijuana law reform organization, and that’s why I’ve joined NORML’s Advisory Board to help bring these sensible policies to the entire country.
"I know that many of you have been involved with NORML for many years, and for that I’m grateful. It's because of people like you that NORML has been able to move popular opinion and change laws. So today, let me say ‘thank you’ for your time and efforts, and I’m looking forward to joining you and NORML in the fight to end marijuana prohibition in America once and for all."
It's terrific that Crosby has endorsed NORML, but what took him so long? In 2004, he was busted for marijuana possession in New York. Eventually, the marijuana charge (he was charged with possessing an ounce) was dismissed, though he did plead guilty to possessing a gun. It was his third drug-related arrest (the other two were in 1982 and 1985).
In July, Crosby announced he was entering the cannabis business with a line of Mighty Croz products. "People have been asking me to do a quality cannabis bransde," he stated. "With cannabis legalization expanding, now is the right time." Crosby lives in California, where marijjuana is legal.
Another cannabis connection is his friendship with Melissa Etheridge, who has her own company Etheridge Farms. In 2000, he provided the sperm for two of Etheridge's children with her then partner Julie Cypher.
