Celebrating Black History Month: The Resilient Roots and Rising Stars of Cannabis

Celebrating Black History Month: The Resilient Roots and Rising Stars of Cannabis

As Black History Month unfolds, RISE Cannabis Dispensaries embrace this time to honor and reflect on the profound impact of Black communities in shaping the cannabis industry. This month is not just about remembering the past; it's about celebrating present achievements and fostering future growth. 

Cannabis & Black History in the United States 

Black History Month, originally a week-long celebration, has evolved into a month-long commemoration of the achievements and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history. It's a time to acknowledge the contributions, resilience, and cultural richness of the Black community, often overshadowed or omitted from mainstream narratives. 

The tale of cannabis within the Black community is as rich as it is complex. Cannabis became entangled in a web of socio-political issues, significantly impacting African American communities. From the jazz clubs of the Harlem Renaissance, where it symbolized a form of creative liberation, to the challenging times of the War on Drugs, which disproportionately affected Black communities, the story of cannabis is deeply intertwined with the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. 

The War on Drugs: A Disproportionate Impact 

The War on Drugs, initiated in the 1970s, significantly impacted the Black community. Ostensibly aimed at curbing drug abuse, it led to disproportionately high rates of arrests and incarceration among African Americans for cannabis-related offenses. This era marked a systemic approach to criminalizing a community, often using cannabis as a tool for legal and social oppression. 

Prohibition and Jazz: Creativity Under Siege 

The prohibition era in the United States also had a unique intersection with cannabis and the flourishing Black jazz scene. Jazz, a genre birthed from the depths of Black creativity and resilience, often found its expression and liberation in speakeasies and underground clubs. Cannabis became a symbol of rebellion and artistic freedom within this community, but it also became a target. The prohibition of cannabis was more than a legal ban; it was an attempt to stifle a culture and silence the voices that dared to defy the status quo. 

As we explore and celebrate the deep-rooted connections and contributions of the Black community to the cannabis industry, we turn now to the personal stories and insights of those who are at the heart of this journey. Join us as we spotlight the experiences of our RISE team, who are vital members of the community. Their unique perspectives and narratives shed light on the real-life intersections of race, culture, and cannabis, offering a more intimate understanding of the themes we've discussed. Stay tuned for these insightful interviews that promise to enrich our understanding and appreciation of the roles they play in shaping the industry. 

Meet Our Team 

Matt Navarro: Senior Vice President, Retail 

How long have you worked in the cannabis industry?  

2 and a half years 

What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? 

I joined GTI in August of 2021, and have the honor of serving our leaders that are focused on working together to provide support, guidance, and leadership to our internal teams that are closest to our consumers in Retail. As Senior Vice President of Retail, I am responsible for leading our Retail & Commercial Development team who selects our sites and builds them out, our Asset Protection Solutions team who is focused on keeping our teams compliant, safe and secure, our Omni-Channel Operations & Experience team who is focused on building solutions that improve the experience, and our Retail Field Leadership team who drives follow through on delivering a positive end-to-end retail experience.  
 
I enjoyed and learned about cannabis in my younger years but unfortunately missed out for many years because of the stigma attached to the plant in the professional world. I took a long hiatus from smoking cannabis as I grew in my professional career but now have come full circle and even after now 2.5 years with GTI, I continue to be impressed with the quality of flower, innovation of cannabis infused products and the passion from our people around the value of cannabis.  
 
I am inspired by the fact that I can “pay it forward” through mentoring others and by sharing learnings from both my life and work experience. I am honored and blessed to represent both the Black (My Father) and Brown (My Mother) communities in an industry that will continue to evolve and will benefit from taking learnings from the past to positively impact the future of the cannabis industry, for all.  

What is your favorite GTI product or strain? 

L'Orange Flower

Virgil Peacock: Regional Operations Director, Southeast 

How long have you worked in the cannabis industry?  

Since February 25th, 2019. This year it will be 5 years! 

What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? 

What sparked my interest in the cannabis industry was when I found out that cannabis was being used medicinally to support veterans with PTSD and Depression as well as patients with Multiple Sclerosis. My mother had MS and she suffered through such a debilitating disease. Cannabis would have been the answer to some of her pain and needs. As a veteran of the legacy market, I saw first-hand the results of the war on drugs and how it affected a community of people. What inspires me is that here at GTI, we are hard-working pioneers of this industry, we are fighting for the right to wellness, and we are doing it right! 

What can the cannabis industry do to be a better ally for POCs? 

So I believe that the cannabis industry could be a better ally for POC's by truly understanding the effect of the war on drugs in the community. Be present in the community.... through cannabis education outreach, and employment/business opportunities. 

What is your favorite GTI product or strain? 

​​Brownie Scout-Flower, Indica Vapes! 

Rita Perkins: Cultivation Technician 

How long have you worked in the cannabis industry?  

Total of 5 years! 

What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? 

Advocating and informing our senior population about holistic care and the benefits of consuming cannabis. 

What can the cannabis industry do to be a better ally for POCs? 

Marketing and setting examples of transitioning to cannabis. 

What is your favorite GTI product or strain? 

​​Dr.Solomon THC Rich tincture. 

Reina Garcia: Admin Coordinator - She/Her 

How long have you worked in the cannabis industry?  

I have been at GTI/ in the industry for 2 years! 

What sparked your interest in the cannabis industry? 

I have always been passionate about plant medicine and cultivating community connections. What was originally a job to support me as I finished my last semester of college turned into a career I had never planned for or considered possible. 

What can the cannabis industry do to be a better ally for POCs? 

Prioritize diversity from the C-Suite down. When there aren't people of color in positions of power actually making impactful decisions, it makes operators seem disingenuous. They can also hold leaders that have been reported to discriminate against their employees accountable. 

What is your favorite GTI product or strain? 

​​Afternoon Delight! 

Highlighting Black-Owned Cannabis Businesses! 

In the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, Black entrepreneurs are carving out their own space, defying historical barriers, and paving the way for future generations. As we celebrate Black History Month, it's crucial to spotlight these trailblazers who are not only shaping the industry but also reinventing it. From innovative product lines to community-focused initiatives, these Black-owned cannabis businesses embody resilience, creativity, and a commitment to social equity. Their stories are not just about business success; they represent a broader narrative of empowerment and change within the cannabis community.  

Mudd Brothers Cannabis Co. 

Mudd Brothers Cannabis Co., the brainchild of lifelong friends and now brothers-in-arms, Brendon Robinson and Stanley Okoro, stands as a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of cannabis. Born from a shared dedication to serve and empower communities of color, Robinson and Okoro, who are also the co-founders of 420NJEvents and the Minority Cannabis Academy, have created more than a brand; they've ignited a movement. Mudd Brothers is a reflection of their principles: unwavering loyalty, authentic living, and a grassroots approach, aptly summarized in their motto, "Straight out the Mudd." 

Their New Jersey-based venture offers an exquisite selection of cannabis products, including the likes of live rosin carts and concentrates with unique strains such as Tahoe Cream, Melon Bomb, and Kool Whip. But the essence of Mudd Brothers transcends its product line. It's embedded in their commitment to community reinvestment and social equity. A significant portion of their product sales is dedicated to supporting the Minority Cannabis Academy, an adult learning institution providing free cannabis education to minorities in disenfranchised communities. This initiative symbolizes their dedication not just to quality cannabis but to nurturing and educating those most impacted by the War on Drugs. 

Through Mudd Brothers, Robinson and Okoro champion a future where the cannabis industry is inclusive, equitable, and deeply connected to the roots of community and culture. 

Buy Weed From Women 

Nestled in the heart of Newark, New Jersey, there's a small but mighty design house that's shaking things up in the cannabis world. It's called Buy Weed From Women, and it's the brainchild of Jasmine Mans. What makes this place special? Well, it's not just a business – it's a mission. Jasmine, along with her team of dynamic women, are steering this ship to uncharted waters in the cannabis industry. 

The brand's ideology centers on providing an open platform that promotes the advancement of women in the cannabis industry. This strategy is motivated by a shared commitment to ideals such as education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and activism. Buy Weed From Women is more than just a brand; it's a community of creatives who share the same interests. 

Since its creation in 2019, BWFW has extended its range of products, most notably introducing a line of apparel capsules. These goods, including their best-selling Black Coach's Jacket and a range of tote bags, are consistent with their message of empowerment and support for women in the cannabis business. 

Their products are not just fashionable items but are symbols of support for an important cause – promoting women’s rights and providing better access to quality cannabis products. Each purchase contributes to this movement, making a statement of empowerment and raising awareness of their cause. 

Hint: Available in the Illinois market! 

Black Girls Smoke 

Imagine this: It's May 2020 in Brooklyn, NY, and Vic Styles is sitting in her living room, thinking. She's new to the city, where finding good weed is a hassle, and even more, there's no community of like-minded women to share a smoke with. That's when Vic has a lightbulb moment – why not create that space herself? And just like that, Black Girls Smoke comes to life. 

But Black Girls Smoke isn't just about sharing a joint; it's so much more. It's where Black women's voices and stories take center stage. It's a community that embraces creativity, healing, and inspiration. Think of it as a safe haven where being a woman of color and enjoying cannabis is celebrated, not judged. 

Vic's goal? To change the way people see cannabis in the Black community. She's all about healing, inspiring, and building a strong sense of community. She believes that Black cannabis culture is the cornerstone of all cannabis culture. And at Black Girls Smoke, the mission is clear: make sure the world hears and values the voices and stories of Black women. 

For Vic, cannabis has been a game-changer. It's not just a plant; it's a pathway to wellness and a better life. She's on a mission to show the world that Black women who smoke cannabis are also achievers – entrepreneurs, moms, scholars – sophisticated and savvy in every sense. Her drive to change perceptions about cannabis and to support healing in communities of color is nothing short of inspiring. 

Black Girls Smoke is a movement, a declaration of strength, sophistication, and growth. It's about breaking stigmas and fostering creativity. It's a community where being educated and classy goes hand in hand with loving cannabis. In this space, stigmas fade away, creativity blooms, and true healing takes place. 

brwnbox

Strolling through New Jersey, you might discover a cozy little spot that's more than just a CBD shop - it's brwnbox. This place is a fusion of wellness and community, where every visitor steps into an inviting atmosphere that feels like joining a gathering of friends. 

Brwnbox stands out in its commitment to creating a space that's not just about selling CBD products, but about building connections. It's where enthusiasts and newcomers alike come together, adding vibrancy and diversity to New Jersey’s cannabis culture. The shop resonates with the sounds of friendly conversations and shared experiences, making everyone feel immediately at home. 

What really sets brwnbox apart is its role as a community hub. It's a venue for events and meet-ups, sparking discussions that go beyond the surface of cannabis wellness. It mirrors the cultural shift in embracing cannabis, doing so in a way that feels natural and welcoming. 

In this snug haven, people from all walks of life contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Brwnbox isn't just a store; it's a community cornerstone where wellness, environmental harmony, and a sense of belonging are in perfect balance. 

Minority Cannabis Business Association

Back in 2015, a group of passionate individuals saw a gap in the cannabis industry and decided to take action. This led to the birth of the Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA), a trailblazing organization committed to serving minority cannabis businesses and their communities. It's not just any trade association; it's the largest in the nation with a laser focus on minority groups in the cannabis world. 

MCBA is a melting pot of minority and allied cannabis entrepreneurs, advocates, and anyone who believes in a fair, equitable cannabis industry. They're united by the dream of an industry that's just as diverse as the communities it serves. The people leading this charge? A 15-member Board of Directors, each bringing their own unique blend of industry know-how, medical and legal expertise, advocacy, and community leadership. They're the driving force behind MCBA's mission. 

At the heart of it all, MCBA is about leveling the playing field. They're fighting for equal access in the cannabis business and putting in the hard yards to uplift communities of color. Their goal is crystal clear: bring equity to those who were hit hardest by the War on Drugs. This isn't just about business; it's about righting historical wrongs and building a future where the cannabis industry is as inclusive as it is innovative. 

Good Green: Fostering Change and Celebrating Black Leaders in Cannabis 

Good Green's approach in the cannabis industry is not just about selling products; it's about their impact. They have been actively supporting non-profits that share their values, especially those deeply involved in community education and upliftment. This commitment extends to providing essential grants to organizations doing crucial grassroots work. 

During Black History Month, Good Green's activities take on added significance. They focus on honoring the resilience and contributions of Black activists and artists, particularly those who have been affected by the War on Drugs. It's a period of reflection and action, aiming to contribute meaningfully to sustainable change in these communities. 

Their efforts to highlight Black leaders in cannabis and activism are about more than recognition; it's an attempt to bring often-overlooked voices to the forefront. Good Green sees itself as part of a broader movement towards equity and justice, extending beyond the confines of business. 

Reaching out to non-profits combating the negative impact of the War on Drugs, Good Green offers funding opportunities, inviting collaboration towards a common goal of creating wealth and opportunity in impacted communities. 

The product line at Good Green is integral to this mission. Each cannabis strain they offer represents a step towards funding their broader goal. Consumers choosing Good Green are not just buying cannabis; they are contributing to a larger effort to positively impact communities affected by historical drug policies. 

Embracing the Journey: Beyond a Month-Long Commitment 

As we embrace Black History Month, let's remember that our journey towards greater understanding and inclusivity doesn't end as February does. Instead, it's an evolving commitment to support, empower, and celebrate the Black community and its integral role in the fabric of the cannabis industry, every day of the year. 

At RISE Cannabis Dispensaries, our dedication to understanding and supporting the Black community extends beyond the confines of Black History Month. While this month serves as a focal point for reflection and celebration, our commitment is a year-round endeavor. We strive not only to honor the rich history and achievements of the Black community but also to actively support the growth and success of Black-owned brands and initiatives within the cannabis industry.