Research Symposium

BIO

I’m a second-year student majoring in Political Science with a minor in Criminology. Growing up in Immokalee, Florida, a small town with a rich mix of cultures, I developed a deep understanding of resilience and community solidarity. These values have inspired my academic journey and my desire to address systemic issues through law and policy. I’m passionate about using research to drive change, especially in underserved communities, and I aim to become an attorney who advocates for justice and equality. My studies focus on the complexities of law and criminal justice, and I’m dedicated to understanding how legal systems can better serve those who are often overlooked. Through my work, I hope to contribute to creating a fairer, more just society for all.

PRAYING WITH PEYOTE“The Religious Use of Psychedelics in the Context of State and Federal Laws”

Abstract

Psychedelics, such as Peyote, are a powerful substance that indigenous communities have used for centuries as sacred sacraments of their spiritual and cultural practices. However, such traditions come to be confronted with legal obstacles in a way that threatens religious freedom and even cultural survival. Indigenous communities have been stuck in a undeserved position under the CSA classification of Peyote as a schedule 1 drug, essentially the criminalization of their sacred substances. Forcing Natives to navigate the legal system that mostly disregards their spiritual rights.

This research seeks to explore the intersection of Indigenous religious freedoms and federal drug policy, analyzing how legal battles such as those involving the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) and the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) shape the ability of Indigenous communities to maintain their spiritual practices. By examining key court cases, advocacy efforts, and policy debates, this study sheds light on the ongoing struggle for religious autonomy and the resilience of Indigenous groups in preserving their sacred traditions.

Keywords: Peyote Psychedelics Religious Native Drug Laws