Sinclair //

Legendary poet and activist, John Sinclair is known as the man who guided the rock-and-revolutionary MC5 to fame and as a political prisoner in the early days of the “War on Drugs.” He was sentenced to 10 years in prison after giving two joints to an undercover officer. His 1971 release was secured by high-profile admirers including John Lennon, Allan Ginsberg and Stevie Wonder. A benefit concert was organized and 15,000 attended. Three days later he was set free.

Sinclair became a marijuana martyr and helped fuel a movement. On April 1, 1972, he spearheaded the first Hash Bash on the U of M Diag. Now it’s in its 41^st year. The goal of the Hash Bash was to defy the law and decriminalize marijuana use in Ann Arbor, reducing the city penalty for possession of small amounts of marijuana to a $5 civil infraction – which is still the case today (although first offenses result in a $25 ticket).

A native of Flint and U of M Flint alumni, Michigan, Sinclair was also the leader of the White Panther Party, a military anti-racist countercultural group of white socialists seeking to assist the Black Panthers in the Civil Rights movement.

For the past 10 years, Sinclair has been criss-crossing the United States and western Europe as a solo performer in duets and with bands of Blues Scholars, collaborating with all sorts of musicians and artists and speaking to audiences on many topics.

Don’t miss out on your chance to see John Sinclair live. Check out the 41^st Ann Arbor Hash Bash at Noon in the U of M Diag.

Hash Bash //

Is there more anticipation for a one hour event that many consider a  bucket list must do? The Hash Bash and Ann Arbor are almost synonomous, but the Hash Bash is about more than just blowing smoke. While yes, you’re all but guaranteed at least a contact buzz from just being in the crowd, the speakers are full of energy and the people watching is classic. Last year, I saw a 20 foot tall doobie with arms and legs wearing a sombraro. Even if you can’t get off the couch to make the speakers, the whole day and night is filled with entertainment. From the DIAG to the Blind Pig, all of Ann Arbor will be sharing the piece on April, 7.