Introduction to YES2020:

We are a non-partisan student-led campaign (based at Victoria University of Wellington) with a mission to empower people with the skills and resources to have evidence-based conversations about weed. The Cannabis Referendum is steeped in misconception and racist half-truths, which is why it is important that we are having these important evidence-based discussions in the lead up to the referendum. Over 39% of ‘persuadable’ voters in the Abortion Referendum in Ireland were ultimately swayed by conversations they had with their friends and families. We believe that building on existing relationships, and connecting with our communities to have those difficult and uncomfortable conversations will be how we can achieve a YES outcome for the 2020 Cannabis Referendum.

Key Steps to having a values-based discussion about cannabis:

1. Know your subject

It’s important that you are prepared for any possible counter-arguments you may face. You can check out our instagram for some great infographics and posts breaking down the proposed Bill and exactly what a vote for yes will mean in Aotearoa.

2. Pick your moment

Are you in the mood to talk? Are they? Make sure you catch them at a good time to ensure best effectiveness.

3. Start by listening

Make sure you understand their concerns so you can respond effectively. You want to open the discussion to understand, not to convince.

4. Values based discussion

Find a shared value! The more common ground the two of you have, the more likely you are to listen and try to understand where each other are coming from. From experience, older family members are primarily concerned with the health effects of legalising cannabis. Find a way to acknowledge their concern, while also advancing your view. “I agree that long-term cannabis use can be harmful, particularly for a developing brain. However, the proposed legislation will allow for us to control the potency and quantity of cannabis being consumed. The fact is, up to 28.6% of 15-24 year olds are regularly using cannabis despite it being illegal–by legalising cannabis we can provide quality and safety controls to ensure that they can do so safely.”

5. Stay calm, polite, and keep it light.

It’s never easy discussing topics you may disagree on and understanding or changed minds will never happen in hostile environments. If you find yourself getting frustrated you can always take a break and pick it up later.

6. Have a discussion, not an argument.

Explore ideas together, don’t just tell them what to think. You want to build off one another with personal stories and facts. No one is ever convinced by another person simply asserting their opinion.

7. Encourage them to do their own research.

It’s not your job to provide them with all of the facts, but you can point them in the right direction. Health not Handcuffs, the Drug Foundation, the Helen Clark Foundation, and the YES 2020 website all have information accessible to anyone. See our “About” page for more links.

8. Choose your most convincing arguments.

The strongest overall point is that legalisation will reduce cannabis related harms. However, you can tailor this to whoever you’re having a conversation with. Talk to your Young-Nat pals about the economic benefits of cannabis, or talk about harmreduction to the Karen’s in your life.

9. People will likely care more if they know why they should.

Are there any personal facts or stories about cannabis related harms you could share? And ultimately, reflect on your privilege. If you're Pākehā, it’s likely you’re using cannabis without legal repercussions. Māori and Pasifika people have never been so lucky. Having these difficult conversations is a simple use of privilege that can guide us towards a rehabilitative approach to drug policy.