Hispanic Heritage Month 2024
Every year from September 15th to October 15th we honor the rich culture, history and accomplishments of the Hispanic community. This Hispanic Heritage Month we're highlighting RISE team members and posting a cannabis infused cooking lesson. Celebrate with us by checking out our incredible team and this dope recipe, created by Chris Rodriguez, a Personal Care Specialist at RISE Niles.
RISE DISPENSARY Hispanic Heritage Month Cooking Video
As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we also recognize the incredible contributions of our own team members who make an impact in the cannabis community and beyond. From diverse cultural backgrounds to inspiring journeys in the cannabis industry, they share their personal stories and insights. Let's meet some of the individuals who bring their passion and dedication to RISE.
Amanda Cruz (she/her)
Can you tell us about your cultural background / family's heritage?
Multi racial: Mexican, Puerto Rican & Black.
How long have you worked at GTI and in the cannabis industry?
GTI Grows 3 years, cannabis industry since 2016.
What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? What about the cannabis industry or GTI inspires you?
I worked in healthcare as a CNA, psychiatric sitter & ER-tech. I saw so many patients that were zombies due to being over medicated. Doctors were passing out prescription medications, but I knew that cannabis would be a better alternative. I had to support my 2 kids by working in the hospital but morally I knew I was not giving my patients the best care. Once Illinois pass cannabis laws, I jumped at the chance to work as a Budtender in Chicago. Helping patients heal was my aspiration for getting into the cannabis industry.
Unjust cannabis laws have perpetuated inequities for Black and Brown people for far too long. What role do you think the cannabis industry plays in helping to reverse the harm of the War on Drugs?
The cannabis industry has shined a light on the medical benefits of cannabis. Pro-boxers Nate Diaz & Mike Tyson have come out in stating that cannabis has helped in healing process after fights. Mother, fathers, veterans, teachers, grandparents etc. are able to heal with cannabis. As a child of the 90's the D.A.R.E program made me believe that cannabis was bad. I know now that cannabis is medicine for healing.
How can readers support their local organizations or Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations?
Get involved in the community & culture. Become a member or visit the Museum of Mexican Art: https://nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/, support your local authentic taqueria & street vendors.
What is your favorite GTI product or strain?
Tell us about sleeper strains - what is great strain and that no one knows about?
Otto! Love the CBD %.
Are there any Hispanic owned or founded cannabis brands you would like us to showcase?
Mota Glass.
Brittany Dhuse (she/her)
Can you tell us about your cultural background / family's heritage?
Mexican American first generation on my father’s side and third generation on my mother’s side.
How long have you worked at GTI and in the cannabis industry?
2 years at GTI, my first industry job.
What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? What about the cannabis industry or GTI inspires you?
I have worked in retail and customer service for a while and this job gives me so much purpose! A newfound love for a career I didn't know I needed. I love breaking the stigma of "stoner" and what we are capable of or the type of people we are. We are so unique and badass. We have so much to give, from helping patients, to making new friends as our everyday guests, to developing our teams. Developing our teams gives me the most pride. Teaching them and bringing them on this journey is so rewarding.
Unjust cannabis laws have perpetuated inequities for Black and Brown people for far too long. What role do you think the cannabis industry plays in helping to reverse the harm of the War on Drugs?
The cannabis industry plays a huge part on the war on drugs by truly educating the community. It also brings visibility to who and what the consumer looks like. It is not black, white, or brown, it’s a parent, a cancer patient, a sick person, a healthy person, an artist, its everyone all walks of life and impacting them in a positive way. We are offering and making it accessible in the safest way. Through our efforts, we give back to those wronged.
How can readers support their local organizations or Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations?
Community and resources are everything, think local and small, are we sharing their story, their events? How are supporting them? We had out Siempre Juntos tees made by a Latina small business owner, that was small but impactful for her. Order food on light it up Fridays to share our amazing flavors. Engagement boards highlight your teams and their history.
What is your favorite GTI product or strain?
RYTHM flower, I make sure I try every new one that comes to my store.
Tell us about sleeper strains - what is great strain and that no one knows about?
Since I’m a newbie, I phoned a friend, my Assistant General Manager- the Cuban John Torres. Bonzai, Nino Brown, Laura Charles, he's a big fan of Ball Family Farms
Wrapping Up
The positive impacts of our team members extend far beyond RISE and the cannabis community. We value their achievements and experiences and will continue working together to foster a more inclusive society. Please join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
