History and Founding
- Founded in 1970 by Keith Stroup.
- Initial funding of $5,000 from the Playboy Foundation.
- Merged with Amorphia in 1974.
- Supported by Hugh Hefner with significant financial contributions.
- NORML has had various executive directors over the years.
Media Campaigns and Activism
- Promoted local initiatives in the 2006 US midterm elections.
- Petitioned President Barack Obama for a new approach to drug abuse.
- Boycotted Kellogg products in support of Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps.
- Created a controversial flash animation on the benefits of legalized marijuana.
- Overcame CBS’s rejection to display the animation in Times Square.
Sub-Organizations and Publications
- NORML Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.
- Conducts educational and research activities.
- Published reports like ‘Emerging Clinical Applications For Cannabis,’ ‘Crimes of Indiscretion: Marijuana Arrest in America,’ and the ‘NORML Report on U.S. Domestic Marijuana Production.’
- Used ads featuring quotes by New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Notable Figures and Leadership
- Keith Stroup, founder of NORML.
- Hugh Hefner, a significant financial supporter.
- Erik Altieri, the 7th Executive Director.
- Rick Steves, chairman of the Board of Directors in 2021.
- Various political figures have been part of NORML’s board of directors.
Research and Reports
- Recent research on medical marijuana with findings published in 2007.
- NORML report on U.S. domestic marijuana production released in 2005.
- Efforts in raising awareness and contributing to the knowledge base.
- Media coverage and recognition of NORML’s impact in drug policy reform.
- Further reading and external links for additional information on NORML’s work and related topics.