Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of Psychedelic Use: A Roundtable Discussion with District216 and the UCSB Psychedelic Club
In the past few years, there has been a growing movement to decriminalize entheogenic plants and fungi, which are known for their psychoactive properties. These substances, which include psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and peyote, have been used for centuries in traditional healing practices and spiritual ceremonies. However, they have been classified as Schedule I drugs by the US government, meaning that they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.
Decriminalize Nature, an Oakland-based organization, has been leading the charge to change these laws and allow people to use entheogenic plants and fungi without fear of prosecution. Larry Norris, the founder of Decriminalize Nature, introduced us to the UCSB Psychedelic Club, a group of students who are passionate about exploring the potential benefits of these substances.
What's particularly impressive about the UCSB Psychedelic Club is that they approach the use of entheogenic plants and fungi with a focus on safety, harm reduction, and intentional use. While some people may use these substances recreationally, the club's members recognize that they can be powerful tools for personal growth and healing when used responsibly.
As District216 works to make Santa Barbara the next decriminalized city, we are thrilled to have the support and collaboration of the UCSB Psychedelic Club. Their dedication to exploring the potential benefits of entheogenic plants and fungi in a responsible and intentional way is inspiring, and we look forward to working with them to create a safer and more accepting environment for these substances.
The discussion covered a wide range of topics, from the pre-prohibition era when these substances were legal and widely used, to the present day when there is a growing body of research exploring their potential benefits. Participants shared stories about how psychedelics have influenced their lives, from providing spiritual insights to helping them overcome addiction and trauma.
Overall, the roundtable discussion was a valuable opportunity to learn from the experiences of others and to deepen our understanding of the history and potential benefits of entheogenic plants and fungi. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to bring together individuals from different generations and backgrounds to explore these important topics, and we look forward to continuing these conversations in the future.
