Denver, CO – September 25, 2024 – The American Kratom Association (AKA) is proud to announce the launch of its new initiative, “American Veterans for Kratom Safe,” a program designed to highlight the voices of veterans advocating for the continued availability of kratom as a safe and natural alternative for chronic pain management, addiction recovery, and mental health challenges. The program was officially introduced yesterday during a special event in Denver, Colorado, which also honored the efforts of prominent kratom advocates Kelley and Peter Guidry, founders of Forgotten Not Gone.
The objective of “American Veterans for Kratom Safe” is to ensure that veterans—many of whom have fought personal battles with chronic pain, opioid addiction, depression, and PTSD—have their voices heard in the conversation about keeping kratom available. This program provides veterans with a platform to share their stories and advocate for the freedom to choose safe, natural remedies like kratom, which has been a lifeline for many in the veteran community.
Speaking at the event, Mac Haddow, Senior Fellow on Public Policy for the AKA, emphasized the importance of amplifying veteran voices in the ongoing policy debate surrounding kratom.
“Our veterans have served this country with honor, and now we must listen to them when they tell us what works for their health and well-being. The ‘American Veterans for Kratom Safe’ program will ensure that elected officials hear directly from veterans about why access to safe, natural options like kratom is critical for them. This is not just about policy—it’s about giving veterans the respect they deserve by listening to their lived experiences,” Haddow said.
The program launch in Denver also recognized the ongoing work of kratom advocates across the country, with a special acknowledgment of Kelley and Peter Guidry, founders of Forgotten Not Gone, a non-profit organization committed to preventing veteran suicide through physical and emotional well-being. The Guidrys have been outspoken advocates for kratom’s role in helping veterans overcome their struggles to become more active in their community, and their efforts have inspired many others to join the cause.
“We are thrilled to honor Kelley and Peter for their tireless work on behalf of veterans,” said Haddow. “Their leadership and commitment to kratom advocacy has made a real difference in the lives of countless veterans, and we’re proud to stand alongside them in this fight.”
The American Kratom Association will continue to work closely with veteran communities across the country to advocate for policies that protect access to kratom, ensuring that those who rely on this natural product can continue to do so safely.
For more information about the “American Veterans for Kratom Safe” program, please visit the American Kratom Association’s website at www.protectkratom.org/veterans.
