‘We’re participating as a legal state:’ 10th annual Global Cannabis March leaves big mark in Rehoboth

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del.- Advocates across the first state hit the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach Saturday for what they call a victory lap for the 10th annual Global Cannabis March.

The Rehoboth Beach march was just one of many across the globe where advocates gathered for the annual event that celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The event originated in New York.

Delaware Cannabis Advocacy Network Director Zoe Patchell says this year’s celebration was special. “We’re actually participating as a legal state,” Patchell said.  “It’s been a long and hard fight. We’re excited that the law finally passed, and we’ve ended the criminal and civil penalties for possession here in Delaware.”

As of April 2023, Delawareans 21 and older can legally possess up to one ounce of cannabis.

Patchell says the goal of the event was to also inform the community of what’s still prohibited. “It’s not legal to consume in public still. That’ still considered a misdemeanor offense,” Patchell said.

“Or in your car. That is also a prohibited act, and we would certainly advocate against driving while under the influence,” Sharer said.

Delaware NORML Executive Director Laura Sharer tells 47ABC legalization was just the first step. She says they’re now calling attention to the work in Delaware that’s left. “Our surrounding states allow their residents to home cultivate cannabis and that is not currently on Delaware’s law books. That’s one of our next initiatives,” Sharer said.

Their message doesn’t stop in Delaware as advocates are also calling for change on the federal level. “We’re asking the federal government to de-schedule cannabis and remove it from the controlled substance list to classify it like alcohol and tobacco,” Patchell said.

Advocates also tells 47ABC they’re calling on the attorney general to help with more prison reform efforts for those currently serving cannabis related convictions.

It’s also important to note that the legalization of cannabis in Delaware passed without Governor John Carney’s signature.