Peter McWilliams, you will not be forgotten.

Some of us knew your personal warmth and love. Many of us knew you through your best-selling books, or your work for personal freedom. Millions more will feel your impact.

You died a casualty in the war on drugs. The battle was over medical marijuana. Voters in your own home state of California agreed with you that marijuana should be legal for medical purposes. Proposition 215 passed overwhelmingly in 1996, but the federal drug warriors ignored the voters, and your activism made you a target. For helping a friend produce medical marijuana, you were charged as a drug kingpin in federal court.

In the end, you were facing five years in prison, you were bankrupt from legal battles, unable to work, and forbidden to use the medical marijuana you yourself needed to keep down the medication for your AIDS and AIDS-related cancer.

You were awaiting the final sentence from the judge. But you could not wait very long. You could not keep down your medication.

• anonymous -- I can hardly believe Mr. McWilliams is gone. I only knew him through his writings in his books and on the internet, but even so, he was a spectacularly vibrant and wonderful figure. The world is a darker place without him, and therefore every man should shed a tear for Peter McWilliams.
• kimi kay -- san diego, ca. his poetry touched me over 15 years ago, and has never left me. i'm so sad that Peter suffered such an ignoble death. we love and miss him.
• Greg Hall -- Escondido, CA
• R. J. Tavel, JD -- His memory is a blessing for us all.
• c e g --
• Marsha Schnirring (Monrovia, CA) -- Thank you, Peter - for everything. I'll visit you often, in the pages of your books. You will NOT be forgotten.
• Kimble Greenwood -- I read McWilliams' AIN'T NO BUSINESS IF I DO several years ago, and feel it to be one of the best, reasonable portrayals of an essential Libertarian view of a society I know I want to work towards. A good man. His clarity will be missed.
• Ron Cox -- Peter, you cracked me up.
• Matt Hotujec -- St. Paul, MN
• Mike Stock-Abilene,TX -- I grieve for Peter's mom and brother...but mostly I grieve for me, because the world is a little sadder place now...
• Robert Hendrickson-Arkansas -- COURAGE!!!!
• Sharon Couzens -- Thanks for your courage and your fight.
• mary wright -- jackson ms
• Kristine Vissage -- Beautiful work...
• Earl W.Ashby -- Ogden, Utah
• Dharmarajan -- thanks for the wonderful book you wrote...
• Adam Lawson -- Thank you for having the courage to fight for what you believed in. I wish we all had a fraction of it.
• Toni Spieles -- Survive In Our Hearts. We will win your rights, our rights.
• Terry Liittschwager -- Justice will eventually prevail and the drug war will be over. Peter will be remembered with love and honor. The judge, prosecutors, and government agents who murdered him - for is was indeed murder - will be remembered only with contempt.
• Joe Dehn - Palo Alto, California --
• Greg Newburn -- Thank you for everything, Peter. You will be dearly missed.--Gainesville, Florida
• Friendly -- Peter McWilliams will never die.
• anonymous -- Thanks Peter - from Boston
• Charles Rollins -- Peter, I am so grateful to have known you, and had you as a colleague
• James Schmidt -- I enjoyed your son's work, enjoyed corresponding with him, and am saddened by his untimely passing.
• marjana --
• Joshua Gold -- Raleigh, North Carolina - Thank you
• Colleen M. -- Illinois
• Steven J. Conifer (President, Advocates for the Legalization of Consensual Crimes) - Hurricane, WV -- Peter, I am deeply sorry. I mourn your death, but more importantly, I celebrate your ever-present spirit. Rest assured, my friend: I shall never give up the fight, I shall always strive to soar, to leap from the edge without fear, grateful eternally for your kind and gentle nudge. - Your pal, Steve
• Steven J. Conifer (Pres., Advocates for the Legalization of Consensual Crimes) -- Peter, I am deeply sorry. I mourn your death, but more importantly, I celebrate your spirit. Rest assured, my friend: I shall never give up the fight, that I shall always strive to soar, to leap from the edge without fear, grateful eternally for your kind and gentle nudge. - Hurricane, WV USA
• Mark Shanahan -- Madison, Wisconsin. A true Profile in Courage. Peter was a courageous man.
• anonymous -- The first book on personal computers that I read was one written by Peter McWilliams. His book was packed with humor as well as helpful tips. While I didn't know the author personally, I gather that his life reflected the same warmth and humor displayed in his writings.
• Michel Kelly gagnon --
• James Dawson @The Freedom Pages -- Peter, Your life on this earth was cut short by humans that have no concience or morals, except their own. You will be missed by many, many of us. By the way, I gave the SNITCH Scott Imler a few words of discouragement even though you would probably turn your other cheek. I just can't.
• David H Taylor -- Salem Oregon
• David Lally -- Tampa, FL. 'Tis sad when the comfort of another human being is outweighed by irrelevant technical matters. Let us hope that this insanity will end soon.
• Mary Gale Smith -- Peter definitely touched my life in a good way, he encouraged and helped me when I needed it. I was SO saddened by his untimely death. I miss him very much.
• Andrew Morriss -- I knew Mr. Williams only through his writings. What a crime that such an eloquent voice was silenced by a pointless and destructive policy. He will be missed but not forgotten.
• Dr. James M. Amend -- Tallahassee, Florida
• Burke -- "Diminishing the weak to empower the strong becomes holy caution, and for every injustice prematurely thwarted, a legion of others is wrought and sanctified, and then they demand more caution and control."
• Robert Mahon -- Last weekend in Santa Cruz I helped put on a Victims of the Drug War exhibit featuring Peter. Many were shocked or outraged. Many, even in the "activist" community didn't know. I printed out a poem of his about LOVE... also pictures and a synopsis of his murder. He's a true martyr. Love Will Win.
• Dale Denten --
• Sir Mildred Pierce -- http://bigbrother.pitas.com/
• sue --
• Aaron Lein -- Bartlesville, OK
• C. Miniato -- Vancouver, Canada
• David K. M Klaus -- None dare call it murder, but murder it was, murder most foul.
• Craig Hines -- Los Angeles, CA - How sad that the will of the people who voted in favor of medical marijuana can be so ignored! Peter fought... and fights on. This isn't about drugs, it is about being human... and lessening the suffering of others.
• Amy Lynn -- I cant beleave they have killed another inocent bystanderd because they dont want to let medical mrijuana be because the police are too busy selling and smokeing as much as possible to make side money well I hope they rot in hell
• amy lohse -- rest in peace hommie
• Maryjane Hempette -- Rest in Peace Peter........
• slenn714 -- I understand your fight
• Jim in Buffalo -- I learned of Peter's death while watching the Green Party convention on C-Span. His life's work brought me back from the brink more times than I can count, and news of his death hit me like a sledgehammer. I'll never forget him for as long as I live.
• Kirk Muse -- TAKE THE STATUE OF LIBERTY DOWN! IT DOESN'T BELONG IN THE UNITED STATES.
• Alicia -- very good hero
• Judith Loring -- Did not know Peter personally but very proud of his work and support his efforts. We need more heros like him and, with enough time and voices, we will make a difference.
• Mike Maloney, Chelmsford, Ma -- I could not know Peter personally, but followed his and Todd's case well. I was empowered by his "Aint..." book . thank you , pete
• Mama Indica's Hemp Seed Treats -- Peter's writings and posting were and still are inspirational. His murder spawned other's to take his place.
• Jackson -- Massachusetts - Patrick Henry once said, "As for me give me liberty or give me death." Aye, but no one should have to make that choice.
• Jeff Bechter -- Arkansas
• Karen Heikkala--Austin, Texas -- His courageous wisdom was a light for many to be guided by.
• Tamara L. Marlar--Tennessee -- Peter was a man of great courage. I hope there will be many more heros who will follow in his footsteps.
• Lionel Hereda -- Pete, I video taped your funeral and caught the incisive words of Steve and Michele Kubby, Jack Herer, Paul Krasner, and Chris Conrad and Mikki Norris in front of the West Los Angeles Federal Building. The word will go out ! Lionel 2000@ mail .com
• Floyd Peterson -- My name appears before, I am not a genius at internet stuff and hit the wrong button but I wanted to say that my heart goes out to his family and friends. I anguish at his death but then I anguish at all of the victums of this insane drug war and I rail at people like J. Gordan Liddy who believe in
• Candice Kluge -- Dear Peter, you are sorely missed... I will never forget you. Thank you for all of the kindness that you shared...
• Kate Mahony -- Pinehurst, North Carolina
• jane weirick -- we all miss you terribly and we will never forget you.
• LJ Carden -- I only knew Peter through his writing on the internet. Such a loss to a mother is tragic regardless of the reason, but your loss is greater due to the injustice and behavior of our government. My deepest sympathies to you, his family and his multitude of friends.
• Derek Horstmeyer -- Palo Alto, CA
• Rich -- A soul destroyed by the power of a fearful majority
• Ginger Warbis -- Say hi to Crazzy Mac for me. You're both sorely missed.
• Meg -- Peter has been through a tough life and will know go live in peace in heaven where he can enjoy the rest of his life . God is with you !!
• Diamantis N.P. -- Good people inspire others & the ripples they leave in the cosmos, are felt forever. Peter McWilliams - courageous warrior for what you believed - may you rest in peace. You've earned it.
• Teresa LeBar -- SC..I cant believe he's gone. His books, logic & wisdom have kept me going (I'm depressive). I once had the gift of a personal email reply, and will treasure his kind words forever. I miss him already and hold dear the work he left behind. I hope I can follow it and do it justice in his honor.
• Richard E. Pearl, Sr. Ed.D. -- Peter was a hero with a heart of gold. I corresponded with him via email rarely, but he was always there for me to ask questions, even when he had overwhelming problems of his own. Now this kind and gentle man is in God's hands, where he will be for eternity, no longer in pain or being threatened.
• anonymous --
• Sierra Swearingen - Boulder -- Peter, thank you for "Love 101" and "You Can't Afford the Luxury of a Negative Thought." Remarkable, sparkling books. May you be sparkling in the paradise of your choice.
• Robin C. Westmiller -- Your poetry was an inspiration in the 70's, your political words continued to inspire many well into the 21st Century, including my 13 year old daughter. You did not die alone, nor in vain. We will miss you.
• John Kimbell -- Pete, they seem to be skewing your message to fit only one ideal, although your true message was one of personal freedom. Even in high school you were always so free, and I wish I could be more like you, but I am too jaded! I will miss you greatly. Your friend in AZ, JK. "Witch Hazel Forever!!!!"
• Darren Christopher McGee -- Corpus Christi, Texas USA
• zach seprodi -- indiana, maryland
• RJ Bartsch -- Newton, MA. Peter, you are one of the people who have most influenced my life. You will never be forgotten.
• Lucy Tuck -- A Brave and Couragous Man
• C. Miller -- My thoughts are with Peter's family. His books inspired me, and I enjoyed being part of his e-mail list. Tragic the direction this country is taking. What happened to the government that use to help people, not kill them? Kansas
• Rev John Glynn -- New Orleans, LA. I don't know what to say except that I hope wherever you may go next you don't have to face this type of injustice anymore!!
• Matthew J. Sherman -- from Georgia; thanks for exposing America for the fascist state it is. Crimes without victims will one day not be deemed crimes at all. The American Hourglass pinches the middle a little more with your passing. We need more like you! namrehs@hotmail.com
• kimi kay -- san diego, ca. his poetry first touched me over 15 years ago, and has never left me.
• Derek Lantzsch -- I loved Peter through his books. He is not forgotton, ever. May Youniversal Love bless and keep him wherever he may be. DL August 22, 2000
• rob smiley -- anyone who believes in change for the better is one who will not be forgotten
• Bill Poirier -- Ain't Nobody's Business changed the way I think about the War On Drugs, You will be missed Peter
• Gia -- Seattle
• Marvin Wickline -- Corpus Christi, Texas USA
• Sue Byrd -- A friend to many, loved by many, died for many
• Paul Farris -- Austin, Tx. The spirit of Peter McWilliams lives on in the heart of all yearning to be free. If it is to be for our children and their children, we must organize, work, and build the Libertarian Party that Peter loved so well. Peter, a modern day Braveheart, did not die in vain. Onward!!
• Joe Brown, San Francisco -- Your work lives on in us. How many will be able to say that?
• Derek Wellwood -- Rest now Peter, it was a good fight.
• Keith S. -- His books has helped me through very difficult times
• roy richard -- you tolled to let freedom ring (l.a.)
• Erik J -- He will be remembered as a major catalyst that helped end the drug war.
• Eddie Smith (Utica, KY.) -- The government has gone too far! How many more will die in this unjust war on the people of America?
• Felicia O'Brien -- MINNESOTA
• nina busse -- I want to express my gratitude for the gift of Peter McWilliams and his writings. He has helped to transform my life. I listened to his tape on "Meditations" this morning and paid tribute to this beautiful, beautiful soul.
• Helga -- Thanks to you
• Bobby Mauger -- (Toledo, OH)-Thanks a ton Peter. No one has shaped my philosopy, theology, or politics more than your books and writings.
• Tom Donnelly -- Peter told me "Never pee in a bottle just to get a job" and I honor his memory every time I refuse to apply for a job that requires a drug test. Thank you, Peter.
• -- thanks for the memories
• Bjorn Johnson- Inver Grove Heights MN -- You were truly one of Americas greatest people, we will make sure you will never be forgotten.
• Bob Allyn of Olympia, Washington -- There will be a last death in the war on drugs. Unfortunately, you were not it. I will remember your death and strive to do the work that you no longer can.
• Tamula -- Your books provided me with so much knowledge and wisdom...they (you) opened my eyes to another Way. You will not be forgotte...the words you have left will continue to inspire and tough many more to come. Thank You---
• M Tierney - San Jose, CA -- Peter was a dear friend and an eager representative of intelligent, caring, and thinking people. Unfortunately, this excludes better than half of those in the United States, or Peter would still be with us today. A great, great loss.
• anonymous -- Peter McWilliams was a wonderful man
• Marc O'Donnell -- New York City. Peter, the kingdom of heaven is within you and your spirit is within us all. Thank you for influencing my life. Thank you for helping me. May you rest in peace.
• Joe Rollinson -- Your emails and letters were an education
• Christopher Schmidt -- Your story is a modern 'Profile in Courage' and an inspiration. (Redwood City, California)
• angel jenio -- thank you.
• Tjeu -- The Netherlands
• Marc A. Pelath -- Chicago
• Peter Elliot -- a real decent human being that forgave his enemies...
• Anthony T. Reynolds -- San Clemente,CA.
• Kenneth M. Dow --
• WAYNE ROHRER -- To Peters mother.Thank you for giving birth to such a brilant and compassionate author, I thank you.
• Dan Scupin -- Your death will not be in vain...you have made an important contribution to freeing us all, we will remember and keep fighting
• Lee Berger -- Portland, Oregon
• Vivian McPeak, Seattle Hempfest -- They will pay dearly for their crimes.
• marjana --
• Ed Jefferies -- Rochester, In
• Gerry Hanel -- Just wanted to say THANK YOU!!
• Steven J. Conifer (President, Advocates for the Legalization of Consensual Crimes) - Hurricane, WV -- [Please delete my previous entry.
• Douglas Hayden (San Jose, CA) -- Thanks for your efforts against our bloated police-state government. May your passing (murder) encourage others to stand up against it.
• Anders Dyrekilde -- Odense, Denmark. Europe
• Lewis R. Katz -- Cleveland, Ohio -- Some day many more will know of his sacrifices so others may live better and live free.
• cannabisflowers@gardener.com For the truth visit the site below! -- http://www.fairlaw.org/todd/petes_death.htm
• Sean C. Moore -- Berkeley, California
• Dr Jim Thornton -- Leeds, England. We're drowning in busybodies of all sorts over here, but I dip into "it ain't nobody's business..." when I'm feeling down. It never fails to cheer me up.
• Phoenix -- The life of dissention is hard, but brilliant.
• Patricia L. Barrett DVM -- Pinehurst, ID
• Timothy Nicodemus -- Alaska
• Ginny Rober -- I can't afford the luxury of a negative thought. Thank you, Peter.
• John Cowan, Portland, Oregon -- Maam, I am sorry for your loss. The war against freedom and dignity continues, claiming your son, as so many others (the jails are full). I her witness that the USGOV is corrupt. Thought crime is now punishable by death. But take heart that Peter's death
• James Koehnline -- Seattle. Peter will be one of the new saints in the 2001 edition of our Autonomedia Calendar of Jubilee Saints.
• Shawn L Kindelan SKDI@aol.com -- I just logged on to this site looking for more of his works. They have inspired me and helped me to "survive the loss of a love" 9 years ago. And now I needed that inspiration again only to find him gone. His memory and the way that he has helped me will live on in my heart.
• sue -- ohio
• J.C. LaRue -- I am so sorry and so angry that I will redouble my efforts against the people who are ruining our country. Lomita, Ca.
• Harlequin Jones -- See you in the next life.
• sharlene james --
• Sesha Ward -- Seattle, Washington
• John- -- Thank you Peter, we will keep fighting!
• Bonnie Scott -- We will continue your work until nobody is persecuted for just enjoying their life, like you wanted to.
• Abigail -- As Curtis Mayfield said "we must teach our children that freedom's never been free". Mrs McWilliams, you raised a hell of a son, from where I stand on this side of the Atlantic - a REAL American hero.
• Susan Kupper -- Peter, thank you for touching my life. Enjoy living in the Light!
• Carl Parker -- Seattle, WA, United States
• David L. Edwards,M.D. -- Olympia, WA. Ain't nobody's ... is the best lesson in civics that I ever read. I wish our politicians would read and absorb its wisdom and truth.
• Jeff McWilliams -- I loved his books about computers and LIFE!
• Jeff Bechter -- It is a truly sad day when our government can get away with murder, while we get punished for trying to ease people's pain and suffering!! We will not let Peter's death be in vain... Long live Peter McWilliams!!
• Frank C. Smith, Jr. -- TX & CO Your books are great and I promise to continue to fight for our cause.
• Frank J. Manske -- Concord, CA
• Hollis Pugsley Carlson -- Peter, we will never forget your work or your sacrafice.
• Scott Laur -- Dear Peter,my heart goes to you and your family.May you be in heaven smiling down,in good health again.God Bless
• Mr. & Mrs. Floyd H. Peterson -- Tucson, Arizona
• Jason L. Just -- Cleveland, TN
• Jon -- "Everything for Truth"
• ShutUP&Play--LovelyRita67 -- The musicians support you
• David Campbell --
• Jimmy Green -- He inspired many of us and the seeds he planted will live forever.
• Kathy Dattomo -- San Antonio, TX--Thank you, Peter for turning on the light at the end of the tunnel. Your words gave me the courage to begin living.
• Megan Mccloskey -- May , Peter rest in peace !!!!
• Meg -- Peter has been through a tough life and will know go live in peace in heaven
• David R. Ford -- I'm the author of MARIJUANA: NOT GUILTY AS CHARGED. Peter and I thought much alike. I was on the last chapter of his AIN'T NOBODY'S BUSINESS IF YOU DO, destined to be an international classic. When I learned of his death I cried. I felt his suffering. And his great sense of humor.
• anonymous -- Missouri, USA. I'm ashamed of our government that they could justify their wrath on such an influencial (in a good way) man such as Peter. We will continue to fight AGAINST the insane war on drugs, which is really a war on freedom. See you in the next life! With love!
• John Ott -- The Neville Brothers said it best "Its freedom of speech as long as you don't say too much"
• Shea Gunther -- Thank you Peter, we will not let the federal government get away with this, in the long run they will lose. your contributions will be remembered and honored.
• Stuart Grant -- Ottawa, Canada - Thanks for fighting against gov't stupidity
• Barry Tudor -- Minneapolis, MN Peter Williams knew what to do to end the insanity of our policies against personal liberty....do you? NEVER lay down and grovel under the tyranny of government oppression! Write congressmen, vote, and get involved to help chage these unrighteous laws!
• Thomas R. Brown -- Peter and I were neighbors in Allen Park, Michigan. We grew up as friends and found his mother Mary to be one of the nicest ladies on the planet. I can remember how Peter's father (Mac) would spend all of November decorating the outside of their house f
• A. Armstrong -- It is a horrible that a man died because the government refuses to listen to what the voters want.
• D.T. Chiu -- You wrote what is practically the Libertarian Bible. Your arguments, your wit, and you upbeat attitude, even in the face of everything you faced, is an example of how politics should be conducted. And now you are an inadvertant martyr. Your death has once again pushed me to action. Thank you.
• Rev John Glynn -- New Orleans Louisiana I don't know what to say except that I hope wherever you go next you don't have to face this kind of injustice anymore
• Jamie Budd W -- Washington, DC: Your life inspires me every day I walk this earth. May your life inspire all in the kindness of comfort, for which you were martyred.
• Leon S. -- Cleveland OH. "I know we can't all stay here forever/So I'm gonna write my words on the face of today" Peter, you will be sorely missed
• Andrew Trapp -- Urbana, IL -- I am honored to have known Peter for his deeds, and saddened not to have known the great man behind the deeds.
• Todd -- Missouri, We lost a great man in Peter. He will be sorely missed!
• Colfax -- Peter's actions on behalf of liberty are one of the reasons I moved to California in the first place. I hope that the rest of us can one day be as couragous as he.
• Drew -- A step closer to decriminalization thanks to Pete.
• Alex Hunt -- I am stunned at this loss. We should all weep for what we have lost. He was a great man, and a brave man, an a friend to us all.
• eric -- Im sorry for a peter, im sorry for anyone who dies because of govermental bullshit. may the high you get in heaven be better than the ones of this hell
• Rich Dobbs -- Washington State
• Debbie Wojcik -- Peter's books are great and an inspiration!!
• Michel Pin -- Davis CA
• Linda Rawles -- Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ
• Becky Harrington -- Flour Bluff (Corpus Christi) TX USA
• Freaky Fred -- Time to start the revolution?
• anonymous -- May you have well-deserved rest after a righteous fight.
• Geoff Perugino -- Boston, MA
• Mark Amidon -- I want the judge and/or prosecutor brought up on charges. I want the Feds to understand that the 10th Amendment isn't just about jurisdiction. It's been months, and I'm still angry.
• Richard C. Ellis -- I heard about Peter's death yesterday. I decided not to believe the news. I cried even though I was disbelieving. His writing energized my life. His writing saved my life. The United States government killed a man for what he wrote as surely as the Fatwa against Rushdie was intended to kill him
• Mary & BE Smith -- My husband knew Peter. BE was the first federal case, just before Todd and Peter's. Peter once wrote me an email after BE went to prison for medicinal marijuana, and made the statement to me that he (Peter), and BE were like shooting stars, lighting up their particular area in life. We loved Peter

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