The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) is a national, nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to reforming our criminal justice system through progressive drug policy [1]. Founded in 2019, LPP’s mission is to end the injustices caused by America’s cannabis prohibition and the War on Drugs [2]. As the legal cannabis industry continues to grow and thrive, LPP works tirelessly to address a glaring injustice: thousands of individuals remain incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses that are no longer considered crimes in many states.
Why LPP Deserves Our Attention
- Addressing Systemic Injustice
LPP advocates for the release of tens of thousands of people still incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses that are now legal in many states. This work is crucial in addressing the ongoing impact of outdated and discriminatory drug policies.
- Comprehensive Support
The organization doesn’t just work towards releasing prisoners; it also provides support for reentry and helps repair the harms caused by cannabis prohibition. LPP has distributed over $2 million in grant funding since 2020 to assist recently released constituents and families of those still incarcerated [3].
- Raising Awareness
Through social media campaigns and storytelling, LPP educates the public about the human toll of cannabis prohibition. Their Instagram following has grown by 92.8% in just three years, reaching 1.1 million accounts despite challenges posed by platform policies around cannabis-related content[2].
Success Stories
LPP’s work has led to several notable successes:
- Michael Thompson was released after serving 25 years in Michigan for a nonviolent marijuana offense.
- Richard DeLisi, once the country’s longest-serving cannabis prisoner, was released after 30 years.
- Andy Cox, sentenced to life without parole for growing cannabis, was released through LPP’s compassionate release program.
Current Cannabis Events and LPP’s Relevance
As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve, LPP’s work becomes increasingly important:
- Federal Decriminalization Efforts
With ongoing discussions about federal cannabis decriminalization, LPP’s advocacy for those still incarcerated is more crucial than ever. The organization highlights the disconnect between changing laws and the continued incarceration of cannabis offenders.
- State-Level Legalization
As more states legalize cannabis for medical or recreational use, LPP’s work underscores the need for retroactive justice. The organization advocates for the release of prisoners in states where cannabis is now legal.
- Social Equity in the Cannabis Industry
LPP’s efforts align with growing conversations about social equity in the legal cannabis industry. They advocate for giving former cannabis prisoners opportunities in the legal market, addressing the irony of people remaining incarcerated while others profit from the same plant.
The Last Prisoner Project stands at the intersection of criminal justice reform and cannabis policy, working to ensure that as society’s views on cannabis evolve, those who have been most harmed by prohibition are not left behind. By supporting LPP, we can contribute to a more just and equitable approach to cannabis policy and criminal justice reform.
Smoke for Change
At Kontra, we believe in the power of every purchase to make a difference. Our METTLE bowls aren’t just precision-engineered smoking accessories; they’re a statement of solidarity with those who have been unjustly affected by outdated cannabis laws. By choosing a METTLE bowl, you’re not just upgrading your smoking experience – you’re joining a movement. Each METTLE bowl represents a commitment to justice, equality, and compassion in the cannabis industry. When you use our unbreakable, stainless steel bowl, you stand strong with those who can’t.
Citations:
[1] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org
[2] https://shortyawards.com/9th-impact/saylor-led-instagram-campaign-last-prisoner-project
[3] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/stories
[4] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/my-life-in-prison
[5] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/blossoming-beyond-boundaries-a-cannabis-felons-journey-to-a-brighter-future
[6] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/success-stories
[7] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/a-call-for-compassion-my-journey-toward-commutation
[8] https://www.lastprisonerproject.org/just-cannabis
