Panel discusses marijuana legalization

Most people would never think to compare the sport of football to smoking marijuana.

To prove a point, retired Professor Julian Heicklen made that comparison last night during a panel discussion on the legalization of marijuana.

"Football glorifies violence," Heicklen said. "Football is extremely criminal. Football is more dangerous then marijuana, but football is legal."

About 30 University students gathered last night in Atherton Hall to listen to viewpoints presented by Heicklen; Natalie Croll, health care worker and anti-legalization speaker; Tom Bernard, professor of criminal justice and sociology; and students on both sides of the marijuana issue.

Heicklen reiterated his viewpoints he has presented repeatedly in his weekly marijuana protests to promote personal liberties. He cited moral, economic, social, crime-reducing and medicinal reasons for legalizing the drug.

Croll, who is also the assistant director of the Office of Health Promotion, then presented a stance on legalization based on a public health standpoint.

"Marijuana is psychologically addictive," Croll said. "It creates a chemical dependency that leads to addiction."

Bernard took a neutral stance on the topic, commenting on the points presented by Heicklen and Croll.

"I don't think we have the right to own a vegetable," Bernard said. "I don't think it is a good idea to smoke marijuana."

Libertarian students and supporters of Heicklen echoed his beliefs about less government intervention and increased personal freedoms.

"We're freedom fighters," said Ryan Matlock, vice president of campus Libertarian movement. "Legalizing drug laws in Centre County is a start to personal freedom."

Organizers of the panel said the purpose was simply to discuss differing viewpoints of legalization and eliminate biases people have about the issue.

Ryan Spivak (freshman-division of undergraduate studies), one of the organizers, said he has been interested in the issue of marijuana legalization for a long time.

"I thought it would be interesting to talk to him and discuss the issue," Spivak said. "Learning both sides leads to some good discussion."

Feeling he has not been given a speedy trial, Heicklen said he will again smoke a "joint" at Thursday's protest, after two weeks of not smoking at the weekly events.

"The courts of Centre County are corrupt," Heicklen said.

Heicklen, who was arrested Feb. 12 for possession of a small amount of marijuana, has his preliminary hearing set for March 18.