Event Spotlight: Midwestern Regional Conference
Chris Chiles, University of Michigan SSDP in Ann Arbor, Michigan
It was an honor to organize and host the Midwest regional conference in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In the first weekend of April students from all over the Midwest came to Ann Arbor not knowing what to expect.
We decided to hold this conference the day after the 37th annual “Hash Bash" hosted by UM-NORML to illustrate the rich cultural history of Ann Arbor. Thousands attended this long-standing protest against marijuana prohibition. Although many folks just come to smoke pot, we intended to transform the enthusiasm of people at that event into action.
Our expectations were exceeded, and not just in the amount of people at our conference. The energy and spirit contained within our conference ballroom was extraordinary. I have to say that my favorite part was seeing the students work together when we split them off into groups by state.
You could clearly see the faces of focused and determined individuals in those circles.
While organizing the conference, I was concerned about finding a hotel that would be suitable for such an event. The Best Western Executive Plaza turned out to be the perfect venue. Members of the Michigan chapter of NORML also stayed at this hotel that weekend for Hash Bash, and there were absolutely no issues. No complaints were made, except about a group of people staying there for the annual Ann Arbor Pow Wow.
I am incredibly thankful for the chance I've had in SSDP to meet so many amazing people with unparalleled motivation, intelligence and commitment.
- Chris Chile, University of Michigan
