RVPS Gathering | Guest Speaker: Will Lucas

Title:

Oregon In Context: Exploring the Current State of Drug Reform Efforts Nationwide

Summary:

In this upcoming presentation, we will explore the state-wide legalization of psychedelics in Oregon and Colorado, as well as other noteworthy drug reform efforts in the United States. Come learn about the Oregon Model of psychedelic legalization and how it differs from decriminalization, recreational legalization, and non-commercial legalization. We will discuss city-wide measures, proposed legalization, and decriminalization in various states that are contributing to the evolving landscape of drug policy.

This presentation will highlight the challenges and opportunities in state-wide psychedelic legalization, as well as explore the broader drug reform movements that aim to redefine our relationships with substances. After this presentation, you will understand the important distinctions between broad drug legalization and decriminalization, and be informed on the current state of the conversation around drug policy reform.

Join in on this ongoing conversation about drug policy reform and the future of state-led psychedelic legalization.

Bio:

Will Lucas is a passionate advocate for the integration of psychedelic medicines into mainstream society. Over the past three years, he has played a variety of roles in support of this goal, including interning on the Measure 109 campaign that legalized psilocybin in Oregon, working with the Synthesis Institute to renovate the Buckhorn Springs Retreat Center in hopes of establishing a psilocybin retreat center, and serving as campaign manager on the No on 15-203 campaign that defended psilocybin access in unincorporated Jackson County.

In each of these roles, Will has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the psychedelic ecosystem. He has helped to build support for psilocybin legalization, contributed to the development of safe and supportive spaces for psychedelic experiences, and defended access to these medicines in the face of opposition.

Will's long-term goal is to explore psychedelic states from a neuroscientific perspective, and he has engaged in many conversations with people involved in the academic side of the psychedelic space to better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with this work. His unique perspective, combining firsthand experience in the business and political realms of the psychedelic ecosystem, positions him well to help further the integration of these medicines into mainstream society.

Will is a driven and dedicated advocate for the potential benefits of psychedelics, and his contributions to the field are sure to be felt for years to come.