In the heart of Australia’s cannabis activism movement, Will Stolk and Alec Zammitt stand as champions for change. With their annual 420 demonstrations, the duo aims to spark conversations around the flaws in Australia’s current cannabis regulations. As the January 2024 issue of High Times features their story, we delve into the behind-the-scenes moments, shedding light on the motivations, struggles, and the impactful photoshoot that captures the essence of their activism.
An Annual Tradition For the past eight years, Stolk and Zammitt have taken to the streets, organizing the annual 420 “Who Are We Hurting?” demonstrations. These events serve as a platform to engage the Australian public in discussions about cannabis legislation reform. Beyond the serious message they carry, the duo hopes to share laughter and break down the stigma associated with cannabis consumption.
The Sydney Opera House Projection However, activism comes with its challenges. Stolk and Zammitt find themselves on bail, facing charges for a pot publicity stunt in 2022 where they projected cannabis imagery onto the iconic Sydney Opera House on 4/20. The charges highlight the legal complexities surrounding cannabis activism in Australia, where the duo’s intention to provoke conversation is met with legal repercussions.
Activism Amidst Legal Challenges Despite the legal battle, Stolk and Zammitt remain committed to their cause. Scheduled to appear in court in January 2024, they emphasize the peaceful nature of their actions during the Opera House stunt. No trace was left on the property, and they seek to dismantle the perception that cannabis activists are troublemakers.
Cannabis Legislation Woes in Australia The heart of their activism lies in challenging Australia’s cannabis legislation, which poses a unique predicament for users. While personal consumption is decriminalized in certain areas, legal avenues for purchasing cannabis remain non-existent. The duo sheds light on the challenges faced by cannabis consumers who, despite having the right to consume their own herb, lack legal means of acquiring it.
The “Who Are We Hurting?” Initiative To address these challenges, Stolk and Zammitt have initiated the “Who Are We Hurting?” campaign. By collaborating with politicians and activists, including the Australian political party Legalise Cannabis Australia, they aim to influence change. Their focus includes rectifying legislative issues, such as the unfair targeting of medicinal cannabis patients on the roadways.
Capturing the Movement: The Photoshoot To bring attention to their cause, Stolk and Zammitt recently conducted an extensive photoshoot. The images highlight the unity of cannabis users, showcasing a diverse community coming together to advocate for essential changes in cannabis legislation. The photos aim to capture the spirit of resilience and solidarity among those who believe in the benefits of both recreational and medicinal cannabis.
As the January 2024 issue of High Times hits stores worldwide, readers will gain a glimpse into the vibrant world of Australian cannabis activism. Stolk and Zammitt’s story serves as a reminder that behind every movement are individuals fighting for change, even when faced with legal hurdles. Their journey unfolds not just in courtrooms but on the streets, where cannabis activists strive to reshape perceptions and pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding society.
In a captivating and unconventional photoshoot, cannabis activists Will Stolk and Alec Zammitt have chosen to redefine the imagery associated with armed forces. Dressed boldly in armed forces uniforms, they stand proudly against a backdrop of tanks and ammunition. However, instead of conventional weapons, their arsenal consists of a different kind of power— the power of cannabis.
The striking visual sends a powerful message: these individuals are warriors in the fight for cannabis rights, challenging stereotypes and advocating for a more enlightened approach to the plant. The juxtaposition of military elements and cannabis symbolism creates a thought-provoking narrative, suggesting that the real force lies in the fight for marijuana legalization and the dismantling of outdated cannabis stereotypes.
The choice of military attire serves as a deliberate contrast to the peaceful nature of their cause. Stolk and Zammitt are not warriors in the traditional sense; their battle is fought through activism, advocacy, and a commitment to change perceptions surrounding cannabis. By donning the uniforms, they reclaim symbols often associated with conflict and repurpose them as instruments of change.
The tanks and ammunition that typically symbolize aggression and conflict take on a new meaning in this context. Positioned alongside cannabis advocates, these elements become instruments for breaking down barriers, challenging the status quo, and advocating for a more inclusive and accepting society.
The warriors in this visual narrative are not armed with traditional weapons; their main weapon is weed. It’s a symbolic representation of the transformative power they believe cannabis possesses— the power to heal, bring people together, and challenge the outdated policies that have hindered its acceptance.
Through this powerful visual statement, Stolk and Zammitt aim to shift perspectives on cannabis users. The imagery suggests that those who advocate for marijuana legalization are not rebels fighting against societal norms; instead, they are warriors fighting for a more compassionate and progressive world.
As the image circulates and resonates, it serves as a call to action, inviting viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about cannabis and those who use it. It challenges stereotypes, sparks conversations, and underscores the idea that the true force for change lies in the peaceful activism of those who believe in the benefits of marijuana.
In the world of Stolk and Zammitt, the battlefield is not one of violence and conflict but one of education, awareness, and the pursuit of justice. The cannabis warriors depicted in this powerful image stand united, armed with a mission to destigmatize and normalize cannabis use, fostering a world where the plant is recognized for its medicinal, recreational, and therapeutic potential.