Library Mall was covered in smoke and good vibes as the annual Great Midwet Marijuana Harvest Festival took over.

From musical acts to local advocacy groups taking the stage, the event looked to promote discussion around the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana.

Farmer Bill Hawkins, an environmentalist shown above, is a part of HEMPNEBRASKA, and has been an advocate for legalization in Nebraska. Hawkins educated the public about the many uses of hemp from regular textiles and fabrics to hempcrete, which can replace insulation and be used in both residential and commercial spaces.  

The first band that went on was Sista Sensei, who sang of Jamaica and legalization. Sista Sensei was arrested for marijuana possession while in the Caribbean and spent months in prison.  She was released and travelled back to Madison as a malnourished ex-prisoner. Since then, she has worked to end criminalization for marijuana possession.

The next band to follow was Alabaster from McHenry, Illinois, bringing hard rock riffs with compelling covers of Grateful Dead songs.  Each member in their own is a talented musician and when together, they created a lively performance that had the crowd dancing.