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I am an intern at NORML to help reverse harmful policies

Zach Kaplan
Zach Kaplan, NORML Intern Summer 2024

I am interning at NORML this summer because I strongly believe in the need for marijuana law reform.

Having witnessed firsthand the significant medical benefits of marijuana for treating a variety of conditions, as well as the unjust criminalization of people and patients for mere possession, I felt passionate about joining efforts and organizations like NORML that seek to change these harmful policies and advocate for consumer-driven markets.

I am currently a senior at Virginia Commonwealth University, where I am pursuing a BA in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations. I have a strong interest in public policy and law, particularly as it relates to marijuana. While the rush to federalize legalization seems inevitable to some, through my studies I have come to realize that progress is not guaranteed. It requires dedicated advocacy and legislative efforts, which NORML embodies and executes.

So far during my internship I have helped with sending out membership cards, referring medical marijuana patients to resources, tracking legislation and candidate views, and collaborating on media projects with other interns. The internship is flexible and open to each intern’s interests. It has been a fantastic experience working with such a knowledgeable and inspiring team of staff this summer.

This internship is a key step toward realizing my goal of making a meaningful contribution to the ongoing fight for justice and equality in marijuana policy.