By: Shane Houghtalin

HASH BASH: MY FAVORITE HEMP RALLY

Ann Arbor, Michigan: Host of the Nations 1st Hemp Rally.

April fools day 1972, the very first hash bash was held. Due to a lapse in the law, prohibiting marijuana, by the Michigan supreme court, the festivities began. The ruling was in response to the case of poet and activist John Sinclair, and was NOT to take effect until after that weekend.

John Sinclair was arrested and sentenced to 10 years for 2 joints. This did not sit well for many and the protests started. The biggest one of all, was at Chrysler Arena, and featured many greats including John Lennon and local hero Bob Seger. This was the legendary “free john now” rally, that included a great song about John Sinclair, by John Lennon.

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