Episode #155 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with John Redman and United Nations Policy on Cannabis

Did the United Nations reschedule cannabis? Yes, but it may not be what you think. In 2021 cannabis and cannabis resin was taken off Schedule IV and kept on Schedule I.  The United Nations used a difference scheduling system that the United States DEA Schedule. For the United Nations,  Schedule IV is even higher and more restrictive than Schedule I.  For DEA, Schedule IV is below Schedule III and less restrictive. So the United Nations took cannabis off Schedule IV, but keep it on Schedule I. In essence,  the Schedule for cannabis with the  United Nations is the same as the United States.  

John Redman is an internationally recognized speaker and discussion facilitator on drug policy issues -- particularly as they pertain to children. He previously held the position of Director of Drug Demand Reduction for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA’s) of California, He is currently the CEO of Community Alliances for Drug Free Youth.  In this capacity he works to help people across industries, nonprofit organizations, faith-based institutions, and educational campuses connect, communicate and collaborate to develop effective drug policy strategies. He is one of the foremost authorities on marijuana policy. He was recently voted the Chair of Drug Policy Futures, an international organization addressing drug policy at the United Nations.

Mr. Redman is passionate about assisting specific communities because, as an expert on national and international drug problems, he understands how action at the local level can be extremely effective.

Other past honors include:

• Ambassador of Peace with, the United Nations Middle East Peace Initiative;
• Delegate to the United Nations Collaboration on Global Drug;
• Director’s Award for Distinguished Service from the President’s, Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP);
• The President’s Call to Service Award;
• Citizen of the Year from the California Narcotics Officers Association;
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration award for outstanding leadership.

Mr. Redman holds a B.A. from Texas A&M University, an M.F.A. from San Diego State University, and a Doctor of Divinity from Sacramento Theological Seminary and Bible College.