MAMA History

2005

MAMA turns 23!

In 1982, seven women met in a mountain cabin outside of Mosier, Oregon. They were concerned about the harm caused by the misuse and abuse of all drugs.

Frustrated by the emotional, narrow focus on illegal drugs by existing parents' groups and the government, they felt a need to address the broader issues of drug policy. Together, these women created the concept of what was to become known as Mothers Against Misuse and Abuse (MAMA), with an approach based on personal responsibility and informed decision making, with respect for human dignity.

After more than twenty years MAMA, directed by Sandee Burbank, has gained the respect nationally and internationally of those who seek a more comprehensive approach to drugs than zero tolerance.

MAMA believes we must reach out with concern, love and understanding to those with substance abuse problems that are now alienated or persecuted by the current drug war.

If people are abusing drugs, we need to find out why, then address the cause. For some it will be through drug education or treatment. For others it will require training in social skills so they can find satisfaction in their lives, without resorting to substance abuse.

We must judge all drugs by the same standard, and develop drug policy based on science and reason. Then we can begin to appeal to our citizens' desire to live healthy and satisfying lives. Until then it will be hard to address these problems based on our current expensive and ineffective model.

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