JOIN US at PSYCHEDELIC SCIENCE 2025 in Colorado!
Five years ago, on June 20 (6•20), a bold vision took root in Canada. The International Psychedelics Awareness Foundation (IPAF) launched World Psychedelics Day, a global initiative dedicated to sharing the latest in scientific discoveries as well as Indigenous wisdoms about psychedelics.
More than just a day of recognition, it has now become a powerful platform uniting researchers, therapists, policymakers, and the public to explore the safe and therapeutic potential of psychedelics.
This project has been led by visionary minds: Mark Achbar, a groundbreaking documentary filmmaker; Shannon Smadella, an entrepreneur and philanthropist; Kim Haxton, an Indigenous knowledge keeper and leader in reconciliation; and Sarah Butterfield, a skilled designer, writer, and researcher. Together, they have built a platform that bridges ancient traditions with cutting-edge science, paving the way for a new era in mental health and wellness.
This is our fifth year and each year we create a special event in recognition of the Day: 6•20
The first World Psychedelics Day in 2021 was a resounding success, drawing over 2,500 participants from more than 50 countries. Neuroscientists, therapists, Indigenous plant keepers, and researchers came together to discuss how psychedelics are transforming mental health treatment.
Each year since, engagement has grown, with immersive 3D online platforms and in-person events expanding the conversation..
And now, in 2025, World Psychedelics Day is poised for its biggest stage yet. In collaboration with Rick Doblin, founder of MAPS USA, IPAF will have a major presence at Psychedelic Science 2025, a massive five-day conference in Denver, Colorado with over 10,000 attendees.
Fittingly, this landmark event concludes on June World Psychedelics Day itself. This year we are launching our drive towards UN recognition of this Day: 6•20. You can help us by signing our petition!
We aim to highlight the groundbreaking research taking place worldwide but also help dismantle lingering stigma around psychedelics: encouraging their safe, responsible, and legal use.
With the UN’s endorsement, science-driven mental health policies would gain momentum, fostering a more open, evidence-based global dialogue on their beneficial uses.
The timing couldn’t be better, especially with the recent passing of Amanda Feilding, a legendary pioneer and indefatigable investigator of all things psychedelic.
Your Support Can Make the Difference
Canada has long been a trailblazer in progressive public health policy, from cannabis legalisation to harm reduction strategies. Now, we have an opportunity to lead once again by advocating for World Psychedelics Day to be recognised by the United Nations.
We invite you to champion this initiative within the Canadian government and through diplomatic channels. Your leadership can rally other nations, amplify the voices of researchers and medical professionals, and help shape policies that prioritise mental health and well-being.
Together, we can reshape the global conversation on psychedelics not just as substances of the past, but as essential tools for the future of mental health care.
Let’s work together to make this vision a reality. You can do this by endorsing our project here.
Thank you from the WPD Team.