Phoenix Rally and March for Veterans’ Safe Access to Cannabis on Nov 11

News that another Arizona veteran took his own life at the Phoenix VA on October 20th underscores the urgent need for policy changes to allow veterans unrestricted access to medical marijuana so they can have a safe and effective alternative to treat PTSD without losing their VA benefits.

The Rally & March for Veterans’ Safe Access to Cannabis aims to bring national attention to this ongoing issue. The event will be held at noon on Nov. 11 at Steele Indian School Park and progress to the Phoenix VA.

Veterans groups will be on-site to provide resources and information to fellow veterans and attendees.

The rally begins on the NW corner of Indian School and 3rd St. — on the grassy area of Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix — and then a march will proceed to the VA building on Indian School and 7th St.

The Veterans Rights Rally & March for Safe Access to Cannabis will help:

■ Raise awareness on the VA policy on medical marijuana
■ Object to “Conventional Treatment First” protocols (opiates and other dangerous drugs)
■ Raise awareness about the VA obstructing efforts to conduct scientific studies on marijuana and PTSD
■ Raise awareness about urgency of medical marijuana access
■ Educate the public about statistics: 22 suicides a day on average
■ Shine a media spotlight on marijuana as a safe, effective treatment option

Veterans having suicidal thoughts can contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.