DC residents currently benefiting from entheogens include: those suffering from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other traumas, veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and patients in end-of-life care. Initiative 81 will make a difference in their lives and the lives of thousands of other DC Residents.
Do you have a story to share?→
Melissa Lavasani:
Initiative 81 Proposer
“I’m a Ward 6 resident, the mother of two children, a D.C. government employee, a native Washingtonian, and the proposer of Initiative 81, the “Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020.” I proposed this initiative because my own experiences made clear the urgent need for reform. After the birth of my second child, I suffered from crippling postpartum depression. Plant and fungi medicines — not pharmaceuticals –were the only treatment that provided relief and allowed me to heal. These natural entheogens enabled me to work, take care of my family, and affirm the joys of being alive.”
[Melissa Lavasani’s testimony before the DC Board of Elections]
Dr. Mikhail Kogan:
Medical Director, GW Center
“Patients with advanced-stage cancer suffering from treatment resistant anxiety and/or depression experienced significant reductions in both anxiety and depression with improvements of mood following a single guided psilocybin treatment, with no safety concerns or clinically significant adverse events. Other studies demonstrate efficacy of other psychedelic agents to relieve anxiety and stress disorders related to end of life. Therapy with psilocybin is well tolerated by seriously ill patients and, for some, remarkably effective in alleviating non- physical distress. Therapeutic benefits often persist long after any pharmacologic effect of the drug. It is time to support the legitimate therapeutic use of psychedelics.”
[Dr. Kogan’s testimony before the DC Board of Elections]
Learn More About Research on Entheogens→
Uneeda Nichols:
Native Washingtonian, Ward 8 Resident
“I am a DC Native, a DCMJ advocate, and an MBA holder who has successfully managed and owned businesses across DC. Before incorporating entheogens into my life, I suffered from anxiety and headaches caused by trauma. My health and quality of life have greatly improved since I started exploring plant medicine.”
Wyly Gray:
Founding Director, Veterans of War
“Clinical trials have repeatedly shown that entheogenic plants and fungi can reprogram trauma, repair neurotransmitters, and stimulate the growth of new neurons. As a former Marine who found relief in entheogens and runs a nonprofit to help fellow veterans do the same, I ask that you sign the enclosed petition to help those seeking natural treatments for PTSD and other post-combat challenges.”
[Wyly Gray’s testimony before the DC Board of Elections]
Major Neill Franklin:
Executive Director, Law Enforcement Action Partnership
[Major Neill Franklin’s testimony before the DC Board of Elections]
Dan Carcillo:
Two-time NHL Stanley Cup Winner, Founder, Chapter 5 Foundation
“Entheogens helped me process emotional and physical trauma in hours rather than years. Mushrooms helped me forgive myself, break destructive thought patterns, and my guide taught me how to integrate the lessons into my everyday life. Now, I have deeper and more loving relationships with my wife, family, and myself. I am thankful for plant and fungi medicines.”
[Dan Carcillo’s testimony before the DC Board of Elections]
Lia Kuduk:
Ward 1 Resident, Founder, Lookout Counsel LLC
“Plant medicines helped me realize my challenges with episodic anxiety, depression, and suicidality stemmed from adverse childhood experiences. I am now proud of my life as an intersex, transfeminine person dedicated to nurturing the good in others. Dismantling punitive barriers to accessing entheogens will improve the wellbeing of the most marginalized and least resourced members of our communities.”
Additional Stories:
To hear additional stories of the impact of entheogenic plant and fungi medicines, watch the story telling session from our virtual event “Our Stories, Our Lineages, Our Directions.”
