Shweedietopia

Back in 2020, any weed positive young person was excited for the possibility of a legal-high utopia. With the referendum right around the corner, it felt like we were on the precipice of a future where weed would be sold on Cuba Street dispensaries; where medicinal cannabis would be widely available for all who needed it; where growers would get legitimately paid for their skills; where weed could be safely regulated, out of the blackmarket; where people would be educated about it, without stigma. 

But alas, we’re here in 2023, post failed-referendum, and we still seem to be battling with the Boomer generation’s nonsensical moral boundaries. A lot of the older generation are certain that voting ‘no’ was doing the right thing, keeping drugs off the streets and away from their children. Sorry to break it to you Bob and Karen, but your ‘no’ vote means the drugs your precious grand kiddies Katie and Ella took at 121 Festival are a lot less safe. Their friend's boyfriend Jake sussed them dodgy MDMA that turned out to be bath salts. They were spinning slizzard and sippin sizzurp for 30 hours straight. Like it or not, drugs are a core part of the human experience—why not open them up for proper trial? 

Meanwhile, Gen Z is out here getting the fuck on with things, and enjoying ourselves while we do it. Drugs are a pivotal point in adolescence. They’re a core part of the university era. A high is the closest thing we have to flying, leaving our brainwaves shaking. It has the ability to turn the Minions movie into a spectacle. But that’s only if we are safe with our substances: taking them around good people, getting our shit tested, and knowing our boundaries and tolerance. This issue prioritises learning how to have a good time with your drug of choice. Salient has your back. 

This week, Zeynep tells her tales from the trip, deep-diving into psychedelics with the support of her guide and uncle, Tolga. Phoebe investigates why drug use in the hospo scene is a result of poor management. Lauren explores the growth of sobriety among our generation, and Georgia helps you plan your high ahead of time.

In our news section, Ethan introduces you to Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau, covering her first 5 months on the job. Zoë covers the recent School Strike 4 Climate, and Niamh investigates murmurs of a referendum to lower the voting age. 

Lastly, you’ll find a guide on how to find drugs online, the steps for baking edibles, and a playlist to listen to when you’re zoinked. 

Stay safe, keep your friends close, and don’t partake without accessing your (mind)set, setting (where you’re at physically), and your circumstances (what’s going on in your life that could be heightened by an illicit substance).

Arohanui, 

Maia and Fran