Gonzaga’s Stance on Marijuana
On November 6th 2012, the voters of the state of Washington approved a ballot measure which effectively decriminalized and/or legalized the recreational use of marijuana in the state of Washington for citizens over the age of 21. Since then, the Washington state Liquor Control Board has been working on a procedures and practices to implement this measure across the state.
Gonzaga’s drug policy remains in effect and states that “The distribution, possession, and use of marijuana, and the possession of marijuana paraphernalia, is prohibited for all Gonzaga community members, on or off campus”. Our community has found that marijuana does not contribute to an optimal academic learning environment. We continue to follow research which shows that marijuana has long-term effects on critical thought and cognitive recognition, despite students’ perceptions to the contrary.
In addition, marijuana production, distribution, possession, and use is illegal under federal law and always has been. This creates several complications with our students who receive federal financial aid and/or work study positions, are from another state, are pursuing a degree in a field where drug use could have employment ramifications, and many more. As university officials continue to talk about the intersection of federal and state law and how that impacts students, we find that there are many more questions being raised without any clear, solid answers from the government. It is these scenarios that concern us, and we wish to protect the students of Gonzaga University from making choices that could have possible long-term effects on their health, profession, and/or ability to remain a successful student.
It is for these reasons and many more that we continue to enforce our drug policy in a manner consistent with our Catholic and Jesuit philosophy,, best practices, and federal funding status. We appreciate our parents’ and families’ understanding of our reasoning and willingness to communicate a similar message to their student. Students who are found responsible for violating the drug policy can expect to no longer be in good standing with the university and will receive sanctions that will continue to educate on policy and effects.