NORML NZ National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, New Zealand Inc.

20 April 2006 Celebrate "420 Day" with an act of civil disobedience and the latest NORML NEWS

Today, Thursday April 20, millions of people around the world will celebrate 420, a term synonymous with smoking marijuana, with spontaneous acts of civil disobedience against prohibition.

NORML NZ has chosen this auspicious day to launch the latest issue of its free marijuana magazine NORML News.

Activists and supporters will be marking 420 Day and handing out copies of NORML News at 4:20pm at the "420 Box", a traditional smoking spot near the Albert Park steps on the corner of Victoria St East and Kitchener St in Auckland.

With around half a million regular cannabis users in New Zealand, "thousands of Kiwis will today spark a torch for freedom," says Chris Fowlie, spokesperson for NORML.

"420 is a fun way to stick it to the man," said Mr Fowlie. "But there's a serious message too. We are here, we're not going away, and we're sick of being persecuted and harassed like second-class citizens."

"We'll be back again on Saturday May 6 for International J Day, which is celebrated in over 150 cities around the world, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin."

50,000 copies of NORML News are available today from alternative stores and cafes nationwide. NORML News aims to bust the myths surrounding cannabis.

Issues covered in this issue include the gateway theory, medical marijuana research, our "Clayton's" Bill of Rights, drug testing and drug policy, plus our regular coverage of local and international pot news, gardening tips and civil rights.

ENDS

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