As much as we tend to praise activism, the sad reality of it is that it is either thrown under the rug of indifference, or even hijacked for something of a more politicized nature. However, the documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam highlights how activism can take on a more legitimized approach through a business oriented initiative in a free market economy.
By centering on how poorly the American drug policy has been enforced against the legalization of cannabis within the United States, American Pot Story: Oaksterdam showcases how in spite of the inherent absurdity of this type of ban, a more entrepreneurial approach, such as the one Richard Lee took, can pave the way for a more legitimized adoption of cannabis. In fact, the very mechanics of this approach unveils on how legalizing something like Cannabis can embody that of a more gamified nature. As poetically theatrical as it is to label Richard Lee the mayor of Oaksterdam, the great thing about this documentary is that is showcases how important activism can be on a fundamental level, as well as how it can be applied on a more intelligent basis of implementation. As important as the democratic rights of a population are, American Pot Story: Oaksterdam shows how it must be directed in a much more business oriented approach if it is to truly make the sort of impact, which in a more idealistic, if not more sensible world, wouldn't be required given what is being considered illegal is outright idiotic in comparison to the more lethal drugs the federal government approves of. And this is done even after their long lasting damage on a populace has been brought to light. The greatest statement this documentary makes was made by the film's director Dan Katzir " A woman and a disabled man - two people from underrepresented communities - take on the American government. They seemed like hopeless dreamers and we looked ridiculous for thinking their 2010 effort to legalize marijuana in California was worth following. Yet they brought on the massive change we see today in cannabis policy. The fact that these two are the people who had that kind of courage, speaks volumes as to who has the most skin in the game of shaping life in America." Katzir further elaborated how one of the more tragic things regarding the activism surrounding the legalization of Marijuana is often overshadowed because a lot of it is done through the actions of celebrities, which although do garner significant attention to the issue, they still fail to remind people of the actions and significant efforts that the common person has made regarding an incremental issue.
But the importance of a film like Oaksterdam will highlight the meaning behind the many unheard voices out there that deserve to be given credit as a result of their own personal stake in the matter.
Comments