Jamaican-born Peter Tosh wrote and released Legalize It in 1975 in response to his ongoing victimization by the Jamaican police. It was also meant to be a political statement supporting cannabis legalization for medical purposes in particular.
Activity Time: 30 min - 60 min
Handouts:
Activities:
Themes:
We are the victims of Rasclot circumstances. Victimization, colonialism, gonna lead to bloodbath.
Activity steps
- Play Legalize It once, inviting those who feel comfortable to close their eyes while listening.
- Walk through the Legalize it handout and play the song again.
- In pairs or small groups, discuss the questions below.
Reflect and discuss
Legalize it was banned when released, but not suppressed. Singer Peter Tosh became famous. In 1977, Tosh said: “We are the victims of Rasclot circumstances. Victimization, colonialism, gonna lead to bloodbath.”
- To what degree do you think was Tosh right? Explain your answer in discussion or in an essay.