The Compassionate Coalition

As some of you may know, Seattle Hempfest is expanding this year from a 2 day event into a 3 day event:

http://hempfest.org/drupal/permit

Hempfest requires a permit to hold this event, and after more than three months of delaying the issuance, the City of Seattle Special Events Committee voted to reject the application for a three day event due to budgetary concerns.

Due to Hempfest's capacity concerns (over 310,000 attended in 2009), Seattle Hempfest is fighting to keep the event safe.

In 2009, Hempfest experienced a period of gridlock in an area where parks had permitted construction, narrowing the path. The gridlock situation was relieved by Hempfest Staff and the removal of temporary construction barriers. "I responded to the situation in 2009, and in my opinion, we were lucky no one got injured" said Chairman of the Board of Directors, John Davis. "I cannot in good conscience do nothing and take a gamble with public safety."

So what can you do to help?

http://hempfest.org/drupal/helpus

Whether or not you live in Seattle, first and foremost, call the mayor's office (206) 684-4000, to express your support for a 3-day Hempfest permit. If you are not a resident of Seattle, go ahead and tell them you will be visiting Seattle for the event. After you do this, get everyone you know to do the same, and have them do the same.

-Myke