JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Who would have thought the green, leafy plant that people know and love could become the rallying cry for change? This article is all about the cannabis revolution.
For many smaller cities and towns, the growing call for the legalization of marijuana is sparking more advocacy and political energy. For those who hear the call, here are 10 blazing ways to turn passion into action and become a local cannabis crusader.
1. Get Schooled on Cannabis History and Share the Knowledge
The first step in any righteous quest is to arm oneself with the knowledge to start the fight for a cannabis revolution. The roots of marijuana prohibition, the war on drugs, and the ongoing battle for legalization are all important starter topics. Once someone becomes a walking cannabis encyclopedia, he or she can share that wisdom with friends, family, and strangers. Success starts with persuasion, to turn a skeptic into a fellow cannabis crusader.
2. Support the Cannabis Advocacy Dream Team
People must put their money where their mouths are and consider joining or donating to advocacy organizations like NORML, Marijuana Policy Project, Drug Policy Alliance, or Americans for Safe Access.
Additionally, advocates can also show support to the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), which was established in 2010. This group is the cannabis industry’s oldest, biggest, and most effective trade association. Thousands of cannabis experts and hundreds of small businesses make up this group.
As the only national voice for small cannabis firms, NCIA works tirelessly to achieve regulatory changes that benefit the whole sector, not just the richest few.
These groups have been fighting the good fight for years and could use extra green to keep the momentum going.
3. Get Active, Grassroots-Style
When inspired to make a difference, people grab their friends and hit the streets to protest, rally, and make noise for the cannabis revolution in the hopes of legalizing it. Advocates can also write letters to local and state reps, organize community meetings, or start a local chapter of a cannabis advocacy organization. Just remember: change starts at the grassroots level.
4. Lobby Like a Pro
When people want to convince politicians to join in the legalization effort, they put on their best suits and start lobbying. Researching local and state reps, understanding where they stand on cannabis, and being aware of any upcoming legislation are all important steps. The next big phase would be to schedule meetings with lawmakers, share personal stories, and address any concerns they might bring up. Elected leaders love to meet with their constituents, with many being as persuasive as the most expensive lobbyist.
5. Support Your Local Cannabis Economy
Since a few years ago, the cannabis industry has grown rapidly, boosting local economies with additional jobs and tax revenue that is frequently allocated to initiatives that help the cannabis community at large.
Cannabis legalization has provided economic prospects for people and communities who have historically been disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs, in addition to criminal justice reform. In order to give individuals adversely affected by cannabis prohibition a fair chance to participate in the emerging legal cannabis economy, social equity programs have been created in several jurisdictions.
These initiatives promote minority business owners by assisting them in obtaining licenses, gaining access to capital, and navigating the difficult regulatory environment. These projects aim to heal historical injustices and foster economic empowerment among marginalized groups by offering a route into the cannabis industry.
As more states legalize cannabis, it’s crucial to support local cannabis businesses, especially those in communities impacted by prohibition. By shopping local, activists not only show commitment to the cause but also helping to boost the economy–a win-win.
6. Volunteer for the Green Revolution
Cannabis reform campaigns always need a helping hand. They need volunteers to gather signatures, distribute information, or assist in various ways. No one knows when they could be a part of the next major legalization milestone, like Colorado’s Amendment 64 back in 2012. This is a major step in the criminal justice system law and order per se.
7. Be an Informed Cannabis Advocate
Knowledge is power, so people keeping informed about the latest developments in cannabis legalization is critical. Many follow advocacy organizations on social media, subscribe to newsletters, and read up on relevant news.
As a cannabis advocate, the goal is to fix things and ensure that it will go in the right direction. Attending neighborhood gatherings as a cannabis advocate to talk about cannabis law updates, modifications, and standards is a good step. This way, people stay mobilized and are ready to take action when a cannabis revolution calls for it.
8. Sing the Praises of Legalization
Money talks, so emphasizing the economic benefits of cannabis bill legalization, like increased tax revenues, job creation, and overall economic growth, are all persuasive arguments. But just as valuable is the ability to discuss the potential health benefits and risks of cannabis. This information helps dispel myths and foster a more informed public dialogue.
9. Give Props to Cannabis Legalization Heroes
Shout out to the pioneers who paved the way for cannabis reform. Celebrate advocates like Dennis Peron, co-author of California’s Proposition 215, and others who have made a significant impact on the cannabis community. Their stories can inspire others to join the cause and keep the cannabis revolution going.
When the 420 pioneers determined that using cannabis was the best course for their lives, they made a courageous act of faith.These stories are intended to inspire and help others. Their challenges, victories, and the tenacity has forged the cause for a cannabis revolution, the drive for legalization.
10. Unite with Other Social Justice Movements
While racial inequities persist, overall arrest rates are declining as states continue to abandon prohibitionist practices. State cannabis programs also generate sizeable business opportunities as the illegal market transforms into a regulated, small business sector. However, regrettably onerous capital requirements, conditional adult-use retail dispensary license to drug felons, and other factors have limited opportunities for people of color and other disadvantaged minorities to succeed in the new legal cannabis market.
Cannabis legalization is about more than just lighting up; it’s also connected to broader racial and social justice issues. For example, New York’s Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act was designed to address these concerns by prioritizing social equity and community reinvestment. By collaborating with other social justice movements and organizations, people can build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Get High on Cannabis Revolution Activism
Now it’s time to recap the steps to becoming a local cannabis crusader:
- Get schooled on cannabis history and share the knowledge.
- Support the cannabis advocacy dream team.
- Get your activism on, grassroots-style.
- Lobby like a Pro.
- Support the local cannabis community economy.
- Volunteer for the green revolution.
- Be an informed cannabis advocate.
- Sing the praises of legalization.
- Give props to cannabis legalization heroes.
- Unite with other social justice movements.
Passion, dedication, and willingness to take action can inspire others to join the cannabis revolution and create real change. Activism can break down barriers, change hearts and minds, and bring about a future where the green, leafy plant gets the respect and recognition it deserves.
It’s Time for a Cannabis Revolution
Legalizing cannabis is more than just a step toward more recreational freedom; it also epitomizes the goal of social justice and equity for disadvantaged groups who have been worst hit by unfair drug prohibitions. Cannabis prohibition has caused historical inequities, and society can make real progress toward a more equitable and inclusive future by admitting these injustices and enacting comprehensive reforms.
In order to ensure that the advantages of cannabis legalization are available to everyone and contribute to a fairer and more just society, it is critical to prioritize social equity programs, engage in education, and build forums for constructive discourse as the movement advances. Then and only then can we properly appreciate cannabis as a force for social justice and positive change.
Here’s More Information on the Topic:
The Critical Importance Of Social Equity In The Cannabis Industry
https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthoban/2020/08/31/the-critical-importance-of-social-equity-in-the-cannabis-industry/?sh=42aab1c71a6d
Why Collaborative Social Justice Is Crucial for Cannabis Organizations
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture-council/articles/why-collaborative-social-justice-crucial-for-cannabis-organizations-1234585172/
Legal Marijuana Made Big Promises on Racial Equity — And Fell Short
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/legal-marijuana-made-big-promises-racial-equity-fell-short-n952376
