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The Truth Behind Boulder and 420

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CU Boulder chapter.

What Does 4/20 Mean?
 
April 20th, 4/20 is the day revolving around the consumption of cannabis (marijuana) and a way to take part in the identity behind the culture of pot smoking. There are many myths and ideas on how the term 4/20 caught on, but according to the Huffignton Post a group of five San Rafael High School friends known as the Waldos (named after a wall outside their school where they would hang out and smoke) coined the term 4/20 (four-twenty) in 1971.  Wherever the term came from, everyone participating in the event has their own idea of what 4/20 means. In Boulder, even if people are not taking part in the festivities it is the energy, excitement, and controversy surrounding the event on Norlin Quad that makes the event so popular at CU.
 


What does 4/20 In Boulder Mean To You?

 
“I had no idea what an ordeal it was until I came to CU, it is a unique way to unite the entire Boulder community.”  – CU Student 
 
“Its amazing how all the police allow students to express themselves. It shows a day of tolerance.”  – CU Student’s Parent
 
“When I was in college we didn’t need to use drugs to have fun. I don’t approve, kids are hurting themselves.” – CU Student’s Grandparent
 
“Crush a bit, little bit, roll it up take a hit.” – Kid Cudi
 
“It’s like missing Woodstock if I’m not in Boulder.” – CSU student
 
“It’s a complete waste of time.” – CU Professor
 
“I find the event fascinating and I think that since it’s only one day a year, it’s a good outlet and brings the issue to the forefront.  It’s a good event.” – CU Student
 
“I hit more trees than a blind Tarzan” – Lil Wayne
 
“When my Grandkids ask about 4/20 I want to be able to tell them I was in Boulder.” – CSU student
 
“I think drugs are bad.” – CU Student’s Grandparent
 
 “Devalues the legitimacy of CU as a University.” – CU Student
 
“Just another day.” – CU Student
 
“Marijuana is like music, one good thing about it is when it hits- you feel no pain.” -Bob Marley

Ali Chastain is a sophomore majoring in Advertising in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at CU Boulder. Even though her passion is in Advertising, Journalism has always been a close second, which is why she is stoked to be a part of Her Campus! Originally from St. Louis, MO, she calls Boulder her home away from home. She is a part of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and is also employed at American Apparel. When she is not working or studying, she loves to run around her favorite trails in Boulder, stalk music blogs, and put her foodie-ness to the test at new restaurants.