International conference on Drug policy Reform commences
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Ningombam Pramod
Los Angeles, November 05 2011:
The International Drug Policy Reform Conference hosted by the Drug Policy Alliance commenced here at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suits, Los Angeles, California.
The Opening Plenary of the three days conference held at the hotel witnessed a grand gathering of leading experts in drug abuse, treatment, epidemiology and disease prevention, law and law enforcement and advocacy skills.
Speaking on the occasion, Ethan Nadelmann, Executive Director, drug policy Alliance said that there are people in the conference from around the world who come from across the political spectrum whose life experience vary dramatically.
"But what we share is more important than anything that separates us; a passion for uprooting the fears, ignorance and prejudice that fuel the drug war, and a yearning for a more compassionate just and effective way of dealing with drugs in our lives and in our communities" .
He further went on to say that we can keep chipping away at the drug war but it won't end until a critical mass of people, communities and elected persons demand a new way in dealing with drugs in e society.
The 1121 delegates from different parts of the world which attended the conference were given a warm welcome by Gavin Newson, Lieutenant Governor of California.
Former Governor of New Maxico, Gary Johnson also attended the function as the special guest.
The three day conference will conclude on Saturday, November 5 at California Ballroom, Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suits, Los Angeles with an Award Reception function at the Hollywood Ballroom, where eight awards will be distributed to distinguished personalities who have made exceptional contributions in the field of Science, Medicine, Law, Education and many more.
Attendees from across the world who gathered at the conference includes people from United Kingdom, USA, Argentina, China, Colombia, Brazil, Canada, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria, Norway, Russian federation, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Sweden, Singapore, Nepal, Ireland, Lebanon and India among others.
There were only two participants from India including this reporter.