when that incarceration ruins the rest of their lives, that of their children's, family's, community's, etc. There are grave class and racial disparities in incarceration rates as well. Assuming that issues of social injustice amongst particular communities lead to increased likelihood of drug use, the resulting destruction of lives that occurs due to criminalization seems like a circular effect that essentially plays a role in preventing peoples and communities from freeing themselves of the debilitating effects of poverty, violence, drug-involvement, etc. Then there is the issue of arresting the casual user. F*cked up. And yeah, it really does bother me that politicians and law-makers are more concerned with the legalities of drug consumption as opposed to their health effects. But, there is such a huge bureaucracy that has built up after 40+ years of the "War on Drugs" that those working in that field will fight tooth and nail to protect their jobs. Plus, the politicians sell out, lay down, and roll over for campaign contributions that come from law enforcement and other organizations with a vested interest in keeping drugs illegal. Like Obama has done. If I expected anyone to at least bring forward the discussion of legalization, (Marijuana in the very least) I thought he would be the one. I don't much care who is gay or straight or married or not. I mostly notice if they are brave enough to confront bigotry. The fact that people break the current laws and get themselves into serious trouble is