Two Montreal, Canada religious groups can now legally import ayahuasca
The two-year exemptions, first granted in June 2017, are renewable. Health Canada refused to provide VICE with the quantities allowed, claiming the information is confidential. “These exemptions were for religious purposes only.”
Canadian followers of these religions have fought for more than 15 years to obtain an exemption from the Canadian federal government. Jeffrey Bronfman, a third-generation heir to one of Montreal’s wealthiest families, was at the heart of the negotiations. Ironically, his great-uncle, Samuel Bronfman made his fortune in the 1920s with the Seagram liquor company, while alcohol was banned in the United States. The Céu do Montreal and the Beneficient Spiritist Center União do Vegetal are religions originating in Brazil. The main sacrament at the heart of their practice is called Santo Daime and consists of consuming ayahuasca to meet the divine. “Health Canada recognizes that the use of Daime tea is an integral part of religious practices in some cultures,” Gagnon said.
Original Article (Vice):
Two Montreal, Canada religious groups can now legally import ayahuasca
Artwork Fair Use: David Iliff
