Down with the War on Drugs! Up with Marriage Equality! | Brain Food Daily | TakePart TV

Down with the War on Drugs! Up with Marriage Equality! | Brain Food Daily | TakePart TV

Well, it turns out the world didn’t end in 2012. So, here are three key areas where we’d like to see more positive changes in government, social justice, and human rights in 2013.

1. Serious Discussion About the Drug War

The debate over the legalization of marijuana has become increasingly prominent. For the first time, a majority of Americans polled support the legalization of marijuana. States like Colorado and Washington have decriminalized it, and many others are considering taxing it rather than spending trillions policing it. Nonetheless, many nonviolent drug offenders are still facing life in prison. With public opinion shifting, national leaders need to foster serious reform discussions about drug policy in 2013.

2. Restart the War on Poverty

The economic gap between the wealthy and the poor has widened significantly, especially following the Great Recession. It's crucial to revisit strategies to alleviate poverty and assist the millions of homeless Americans. Over the past decade, the focus has been on the wealthy and the middle class, but it’s essential not to ignore the nation’s tens of millions living in poverty. To get involved locally, check out the United Way’s Action Center. Volunteering, even once, can make a difference in someone’s life.

3. Increase Marriage Equality

The movement for marriage equality is gaining momentum. In 2013, there will likely be challenges, such as combating unintentional hate speech and navigating legal obstacles. However, the train for marriage equality is unstoppable. Traditional marriage will remain intact while including gay couples. If you're looking to support same-sex rights, TakePart offers a guide on five things you can do.

Beyond these key areas, there's much more we can hope for in the coming year. Bipartisanship, reducing money in politics—these may seem like dreams, but they are aspirations worth striving for. Let’s work together to create a brighter future.

I'm Joe Hartzler, and we’ll see you in the future.

Keywords

• Drug War
• Legalization of Marijuana
• Economic Gap
• Recession
• Poverty
• Homelessness
• United Way Action Center
• Marriage Equality
• Traditional Marriage
• Same-sex Rights
• Bipartisanship
• Political Reform

FAQ

Q1: What is the main focus of the article? A1: The article highlights three areas for positive change in government, social justice, and human rights in 2013: the drug war, poverty alleviation, and marriage equality.

Q2: What significant change in public opinion regarding marijuana was mentioned? A2: For the first time, a majority of Americans polled support the legalization of marijuana.

Q3: What are state-level changes mentioned for marijuana policy? A3: States like Colorado and Washington have decriminalized marijuana, and others are considering taxing it.

Q4: How does the article suggest individuals can help alleviate poverty? A4: By getting involved locally, for instance, through volunteering at the United Way’s Action Center.

Q5: What barriers are mentioned for marriage equality in 2013? A5: The article refers to unintentional hate speech and legal obstacles.

Q6: What does the article hope to see in terms of general political changes? A6: The article hopes for increased bipartisanship and efforts to reduce money in politics.