Dagga Couple

The Dagga Couple's 420 DDAY event in 2013

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The Dagga Couple's Myrtle Clark and Julian Stobbs in 2015

Dagga Couple refers to a South African couple, Myrtle Clarke and Julian Stobbs, who became prominent figures in the movement to legalize cannabis in South Africa. They were known for their legal battles against the South African government, aiming to have the laws prohibiting cannabis use, possession, and cultivation declared unconstitutional. Their activism and legal challenges played a significant role in the eventual ruling by the Constitutional Court of South Africa in September 2018, which decriminalized the private cultivation, possession, and consumption of cannabis by adults in South Africa.

Background

The Dagga Couple began their activism after a police raid on their home in August 2010, during which they were arrested for possession of cannabis. Instead of pleading guilty, Clarke and Stobbs decided to challenge the constitutionality of the cannabis prohibition laws in South Africa. They argued that these laws infringed upon the right to privacy, among other rights enshrined in the South African Constitution.

Legal Battle

Their case, often referred to as the "Trial of the Plant," sought to bring scientific evidence and expert testimonies to court to support their argument that the laws against cannabis were irrational and outdated. The Dagga Couple also founded the non-profit organization Fields of Green for ALL to further their cause and support others facing legal issues related to cannabis.

Impact

The legal battle and activism of the Dagga Couple garnered significant media attention and public support, contributing to a broader debate on cannabis laws in South Africa. Their efforts culminated in the landmark ruling by the Constitutional Court, which found that the private use, possession, and cultivation of cannabis by adults is not in violation of the South African Constitution. This ruling did not legalize the sale of cannabis or public consumption but was a significant step towards cannabis reform in the country.

Legacy

The Dagga Couple's activism has inspired similar movements and legal challenges in other countries, highlighting the global shift in attitudes towards cannabis legalization and regulation. They continue to advocate for further reforms, including the full legalization and regulation of cannabis to ensure safe access and social justice.

See Also

• Cannabis in South Africa
• Legal history of cannabis in South Africa
• Constitutional Court of South Africa