To the readers of this journal:
We encourage your comments, questions, and stories about peyote and the peyote religion. We have often enjoyed hearing people relate their personal experiences. We would like this oral tradition to become a stories section by you. We will also regularly feature interviews of distinguished peyotists.
To all cacti collectors, horticultural collection managers, and arboretums:
The Peyote cactus is one of the most visually pleasing and precious plants in many peoples' collections. Unfortunately, this distinguished cactus has been classified as a prohibited substance and is technically illegal to possess outside of a religious context. Any cacti collection that includes peyote (Lophophora williamsii or L. diffusa and their variations) faces a potential legal threat, as does any person who grows peyote for anything other than sacramental purposes. The Peyote Foundation has made the conservation of the living peyote plant one of its main goals. Because of the legal quandary described above, it will be our policy to accept plants, seeds or cuttings for propagation in the Foundation's sacramental shadehouses. Any individuals or institutions who wish to free themselves of the legal responsibility of peyote in their collection have our assurance that we will gratefully, and discreetly accept your plant donations. All such peyote received will be expertly cared for by our Chief Curator. At the Peyote Foundation, peyote plants are perpetually maintained and propagated to help insure the safekeeping of the species.
To the officers and members of the Native American Church:
We at the Peyote Foundation invite you to share your thoughts, inspirations, and knowledge with others through The Peyote Awareness Journal. (PAJ). These pages are open to your letters and stories. PAJ is a newsletter about the Medicine and Medicine People. We hope to be able to communicate with as many of you as possible. Please share this journal with your friends and family who also honor the Sacrament. PAJ will promote understanding and respect for the beauty of the Peyote Road and all those who travel it.
To all attorneys, judges, enforcement agencies, and officers:
The Peyote Foundation offers its services to you as a source of scientifically accurate information concerning peyote and peyote statutes. Previous incidents have shown the need for factual training on this topic. Our purpose is to promote understanding of the peyote religion and its practice.
Leonardo Mercado
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