Steve Fox was an unwavering, passionate and tireless champion for cannabis policy reform. He was one of the first political professionals to enter this space and helped shape it into what it is today.
His character was one of strong principles, empathy and fierce kindness. His passion for politics and policy were only exceeded by his love for people – his family, friends, colleagues and the many strangers affected daily by cannabis policy. He will be sorely missed by all those touched by his passing.
Legalization of Marijuana
Ten years ago today, Colorado became the first state in history to legalize marijuana for adults. This landmark victory marked an historic milestone for the state and seemed unlikely at the time.
Since then, California has been heralded as a model of legalization. Proponents contend that legalizing drugs reduces crime rates, increases tax revenue, lowers criminal justice expenditures, improves public health and enhances traffic safety.
While that may be true, the evidence also points to an exponential increase in cannabis use across Colorado. This trend has spread nationwide as marijuana has become more accessible than other drugs in many states.
Fox, a pioneer of the cannabis reform movement and one of its most passionate advocates, was an icon. He worked for both Marijuana Policy Project and National Cannabis Industry Association until his passing last year at 53 years old.
Politics
Fox was a renowned figure in the American cannabis community. He had been an active participant of the Marijuana Policy Project and an influential supporter of initiatives to relax drug laws.
His death has shocked the US cannabis community. A fundraising drive is underway to support his family in this difficult time.
Mason Tvert, a colleague of Fox’s, remembers him as “a champion for people, an inspiring friend and someone who never lost his passion for justice.”
Tvert and Fox collaborated on several marijuana ballot measures, some of which were successful; however, others didn’t. To draw attention to their campaign, they often engaged in political stunts that attracted support.
Fox had a deep devotion to his parents, Nat and Gussie Iona Ellis Fox, who instilled in him the Jewish philosophy of Tikkun Olam–which means to repair or heal the world. A passionate supporter of legalization, Fox will be sorely missed by Colorado’s cannabis community.
Marijuana Policy Project
The Marijuana Policy Project is a national organization working to alter public policy in favor of marijuana legalization, regulation, and medical cannabis use. MPP has been instrumental in many significant state-level cannabis policy shifts that have taken place over the last decade.
MPP is a champion on the federal level for medical marijuana patients and caregivers. This includes advocating for legislation related to cannabis, as well as helping those affected by it with banking and tax issues.
MPP is a strong proponent of decriminalization. According to their data, 31 states have reclassified possession of small amounts of marijuana as a civil offense rather than criminal. While these laws generally reduce jail time for first-time marijuana possession offenses and sales/distribution violations in some jurisdictions, repeat offenses or sales may still lead to jail time.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
Steve Fox first moved to Colorado in 1875 and settled in Brighton. There he attended St. Luke’s Episcopal Church for spiritual guidance.
In 1873, a group of Englishmen settled in Bay View and established a mission. With help from the diocese, they purchased land and built their first church there a short time later.
This church served the community for many years and became a gathering point for various groups in it. Additionally, it hosted numerous outreach programs, church bazaars and Sunday school classes.
In 1980, the church launched “Kids Kloset,” a clothing bank to supply clothing for infants and children. This program proved popular, serving as a funnel point for donations of clothing to other nonprofit organizations within the community. Unfortunately, in early 2016 they closed their doors in favor of other needs in the area.
