My name is Mac La Caze, and I’m here today not just as someone who practices a a psychedelic-based religion, but as someone who has also successfully sued for my religious rights in the state of Oregon.
I am an urban neo-shaman. My facial tattoo—a blue Celtic knotwork braid—runs from ear to ear under my eyes and across the bridge of my nose. It is not decorative. It is sacred. This mark binds me to my people and to my faith, just as a yarmulke, a turban, or a hijab might do for others. It symbolizes my commitment to my community, my role as a spiritual guide, and my connection to the Gods and the traditions of my ancestors.
I have a background that covers a mosaic of experiences and have traveled many walks of life, from a struggling addict who lived outdoors when I wasn’t in prison, to a student of psychology who latched on to the importance of communicating with the subconscious. I am an accredited priest (with the Universal Life Church, dedicated to Cernunnos and Brigid). I am a fan of raves, high-energy environments and PLUR lifestyle. I’m a vicious advocate and ally for anybody, regardless of race, gender-identity, age, faith, background or ethnicity, or any other factors.
The use of psychedelics in my practice is tantamount to my connection to the higher self. My spirit guide currently resides in its second iteration of a home in a intricately carved piece of Pacific madrone that I carry with me. Psychedelics have saved me from depression and thoughts that I could never change. They have given me hope where I had none. Purpose where I had none. Now I live my life in service to humanity, delicately trying to build an intricate web community.
I also believe in the healing power of psychedelics to save people from alcoholism and drug addiction. I use my discernment when working with people who come to me, asking for help, and always try to initiate without the use of psychedelics. However, I am spirit-bound to render help in any way that I am capable.
I was offered employment with a local convenience store/ gas station, and denied employment before I could even start based on my facial tattoo, for which I had already submitted religious paperwork. I took them to court and won.
I also will never stand idly by and watch while the rights of people around me are being infringed upon. I’m a very peaceful person, but I am also a viking and a celt.
An’ it harm none, do what ye will, this shall be the whole of the Law.