A community leader has expressed concern for the Chinese community when Canada legalises marijuana.
According to CBC, a Chinese community leader has said that more information is needed from the government about its decision to legalise marijuana.
CEO of United Chinese Community Enrichment Services Society (SUCCESS) Queenie Choo says there is a lack of drug education, especially for Asian families who have just moved to Canada.
SUCCESS hopes to provide information regarding weed legalisation to parents in BC when it becomes available on 1 July 2018.
Choo said she will be monitoring all levels of government.
She said that among Chinese families, drug use is not widely approved. “Certainly there is a bit of a taboo and a stigma attached to it,” she said.
However, she added that there are some families who are open to recreational marijuana use but it could be difficult for parents to discuss the issue with their children.
“Many Asian families do think taking drugs might not be a good thing, especially youth,” Choo said.
Although the legalisation of marijuana is only months away, Choo still has questions, even in regards to applying the new laws in her organisation. “We’ve started the process of trying to understand the legislation. How does it impact the workplace? How can staff be supported with the information?” said Choo.
“One of the key components is the education … What are the impacts? What should the community do in order to make sure it’s a win-win situation for all?”
