To All Concerned:

We are in an essential time for change in the perceptions of medical cannabis. On July 17, 2000, in a US District Court in California a federal judge, Charles R. Breyer, ruled that the government has not proved why seriously ill patients should be denied the use of cannabis as their medicine. Though that decision is being appealed, it is one more indication that this is the time to provide our country, our government and our citizens, with a catalyst for conversation on why medical cannabis and industrial hemp should be legal. In my work with patients and cannabis, as well as being a patient myself, I find that living under the umbrella of OMMA is very limiting to us. We would like a place of our own to integrate ourselves into society. I am working on a two-fold project; I am inviting you to join me.

OMMA patients and supporters are a community unto itself. Though we are stretched across the state and living in our own unique circumstances, I would like to see a place for us to gather. Being required by law to medicate away from public view means that many patients are confined to their own homes. Portland is the center for large hospitals in Oregon, OMMA patients from all over the state and hours from their homes risk losing their cards when they come for treatment. We must bring patients out of their homes, we must bring average citizens a point on which to converse, we must encourage our government and police force to become part of our community; the time has come for Portland's Cannabis Cafe. Get a cup of coffee or have a scone and share your life with your community.

We will tell the stories and we will introduce our city to the future of legal cannabis. Moreover, we will support our patients by creating the OMMA Oasis.

The OMMA Oasis is simply a room away from public view that with their OMMA card and a picture ID patients would be able to medicate. Imagine being able to leave your home and being able to meet and exchange pertinent information with friends without the agonies of not having your medication. I myself have had to suffer because I could not medicate and I could get no help from officers at events, or event coordinators to offer me privacy to stay within the law. It is such an accomplishment to bring OMMA to life, I am grateful for all those that made it possible. The next step is simple, lets bring it out into the community.

I am excited by all that is happening. Thank you for all of the efforts being made, thank you for your time and support. As a patient and a patient advocate, you have my appreciation. If you find that you can help us with funding or with a space for the cafe, please let me know. Let's keep in touch.

Madeline Martinez is the Assistant Director for PdxNORML as well as our Patient advocate.  She can be reached at (503) 777-9088 or PdxNad@pdxnorml.org