Combating the Opioid Crisis
- The Cannabis Substitution Project is a peer-led group of dedicated volunteers providing free or low barrier access to Cannabis. In 2016, the increased potency of the illegal drug supply caused overdose-related deaths to suddenly increase, and they've been high ever since. Since 2020, the overdose crisis has continued to worsen and the highly potent opioid, fentanyl, makes up most of the illegal drug supply. Benzodiazepines and other drugs are also being mixed with fentanyl in Canada, which:
- complicates treatment
- reduces the effectiveness of naloxone
- increases the risk of overdose and harms
OUR HISTORY
Our Beginnings, Vancouver, BC
Since February 2017 the Cannabis Substitution Project has given out high-dose cannabis edibles, concentrates and flower to assist people attempting to transition away from deadly drugs. The service is vital during a national overdose crisis, and has been widely supported by members of Vancouver City Council, leading drug researchers, and the community.
In 2018 the Government of Canada introduced The Cannabis Act, an attempt to “legalize” the use of recreational cannabis. The legislation was sharply criticized for ignoring basic sense, prohibition failures, and the long history of cannabis in Canada. Cannabis activist Neil Magnuson, a tireless advocate for cannabis rights and harm reduction, passed away on May 26, 2024.
Neil was a beacon of hope and a relentless voice for marginalized communities affected by the War on Drugs in Canada.
He dedicated his life to the belief that cannabis can be a force for good. As a passionate activist, he championed the rights of cannabis users and promoted the therapeutic benefits of pot. His work was not just about legalization; it was about creating a better world for everyone on planet Earth.
Neil was known for his Freedom Tours, where he traveled across Canada raising awareness about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and educating police, politicians, and the public along the way about the failed policy of cannabis prohibition.
One of Neil’s most significant contributions was the Cannabis Substitution Project. This initiative aimed to provide cannabis as a safer alternative to harmful substances for those battling addiction. The project has been a lifeline for many, offering support and a pathway to recovery for individuals in desperate need.
The CSP was targeted by the authorities, and Neil was in a court battle until his dying days, fighting for the legality of high-dose edibles as powerful form of medicine.
Throughout his life, Neil was known for his unwavering commitment to harm reduction and social justice. He was a vocal critic of the inequities and injustices perpetuated by outdated cannabis laws, advocating for reform and the inclusion of those most affected by prohibition policies.
A regular contributor to Cannabis Culture and Pot TV, Neil was the host of the weekly program The THC (Truth, Hope & Change) Show, where he educated and entertained audiences with cannabis truth.
Neil Magnuson’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and an unyielding quest for fairness. His efforts have left an indelible mark on the cannabis community and beyond, inspiring countless others to continue the fight for a just and equitable society.
As we remember Neil, let us honour his memory by carrying forward his mission to create a world where cannabis is understood, respected, and utilized for the betterment of all. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched and the positive changes he helped bring about.
Rest in peace, Neil Magnuson. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
Watch a wonderful memorial video of Neil produced by Dana Larsen and friends.
Every Since the Cannabis Substitution Project was evicted from their store-front location and raided by the Vancouver Police Department for violating The Cannabis Act. The obvious questions arise. If programs like the CSP, which were in violation of Canadian cannabis laws before legalization, are not allowed to legally operate under the new Cannabis Act, despite being an obvious necessity during two simultaneous public health crises, why has The Cannabis Act not been struck down or amended? Why has the CSP not been granted a Federal exemption?
Watch a special presentation detailing the work of the Cannabis Substitution Project over the past two years, and follow the program’s updates on “The THC Show with Glenn Wells on Pot TV.
In 2018 the Government of Canada introduced The Cannabis Act, an attempt to “legalize” the use of recreational cannabis. The legislation was sharply criticized for ignoring basic sense, prohibition failures, and the long history of cannabis in Canada. Cannabis activist Neil Magnuson, a tireless advocate for cannabis rights and harm reduction, passed away on May 26, 2024.
Neil was a beacon of hope and a relentless voice for marginalized communities affected by the War on Drugs in Canada.
He dedicated his life to the belief that cannabis can be a force for good. As a passionate activist, he championed the rights of cannabis users and promoted the therapeutic benefits of pot. His work was not just about legalization; it was about creating a better world for everyone on planet Earth.
Neil was known for his Freedom Tours, where he traveled across Canada raising awareness about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and educating police, politicians, and the public along the way about the failed policy of cannabis prohibition.
One of Neil’s most significant contributions was the Cannabis Substitution Project. This initiative aimed to provide cannabis as a safer alternative to harmful substances for those battling addiction. The project has been a lifeline for many, offering support and a pathway to recovery for individuals in desperate need.
The CSP was targeted by the authorities, and Neil was in a court battle until his dying days, fighting for the legality of high-dose edibles as powerful form of medicine.
Throughout his life, Neil was known for his unwavering commitment to harm reduction and social justice. He was a vocal critic of the inequities and injustices perpetuated by outdated cannabis laws, advocating for reform and the inclusion of those most affected by prohibition policies.
A regular contributor to Cannabis Culture and Pot TV, Neil was the host of the weekly program The THC (Truth, Hope & Change) Show, where he educated and entertained audiences with cannabis truth.
Neil Magnuson’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and an unyielding quest for fairness. His efforts have left an indelible mark on the cannabis community and beyond, inspiring countless others to continue the fight for a just and equitable society.
As we remember Neil, let us honour his memory by carrying forward his mission to create a world where cannabis is understood, respected, and utilized for the betterment of all. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched and the positive changes he helped bring about.
Rest in peace, Neil Magnuson. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
Watch a wonderful memorial video of Neil produced by Dana Larsen and friends.
Every Since the Cannabis Substitution Project was evicted from their store-front location and raided by the Vancouver Police Department for violating The Cannabis Act. The obvious questions arise. If programs like the CSP, which were in violation of Canadian cannabis laws before legalization, are not allowed to legally operate under the new Cannabis Act, despite being an obvious necessity during two simultaneous public health crises, why has The Cannabis Act not been struck down or amended? Why has the CSP not been granted a Federal exemption?
Watch a special presentation detailing the work of the Cannabis Substitution Project over the past two years, and follow the program’s updates on “The THC Show with Glenn Wells on Pot TV.
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