Why it matters:
A church in Detroit that allegedly used entheogenic plants like psilocybin mushrooms as part of their religious practices was raided by the Detroit Police Department. The police confiscated approximately $700,000 worth of psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and iboga from the church.
What they are saying:
Shaman Shu, the owner of Soul Tribes International Ministries, claimed that the police violated Proposal E, a 2021 city initiative that decriminalized the use of psychedelic plants and fungi like psilocybin. He argued that the police actions infringed on the separation of church and state rights. Soul Tribes operated a “sacrament center” within the church where they sold psilocybin products to church members under the supervision of religious leaders.
The big picture:
The police raid indicates a conflict between local city ordinances and state law regarding the use and sale of entheogenic plants and fungi. Proposal E allowed for the therapeutic use of psilocybin under religious supervision but did not permit the sale or distribution of such substances. The city’s law department stated that state law considers psilocybin a controlled substance and does not allow for its sale or distribution.
What to watch:
It remains to be seen if Shaman Shu has legal recourse for a lawsuit against the police for the raid. Although no arrests were made, the confiscation of the sacramental products may impact the church’s religious practices. The conflict between local and state laws regarding entheogenic plants and fungi may continue to be a point of contention in Detroit.
Your take:
The police raid raises questions about the extent of religious freedom when it comes to the use of entheogenic plants in a church setting. While Proposal E aimed to decriminalize their therapeutic use, it seems that the sale and distribution of these substances still face legal barriers. The case highlights the need for clearer legislation and guidelines surrounding entheogenic plants and their religious use.
