Acting Up: Our expert provides a primer on cannabis activism

Cannabis legalization is not inevitable, and recent progress is in large part thanks to the hard work of drug policy activists and advocates for medical marijuana who for decades haven’t stopped fighting for the rights of cannabis users in the face of victories and defeats alike.

I became involved in cannabis activism back in college when I joined Students for Sensible Drug Policy (see my November column for more on the work they do at motifri.com/ssdp). I was, and continue to be, blown away by the level of critical thought, coordination and energy that it takes to organize around drug policy reform. I quickly realized that the War on Drugs is one of the most important and intersectional issues facing our country, and that legalizing cannabis is not just about protecting the rights of individuals to get high. It’s the first step on the path toward more science-based and compassionate drug policies for everyone.

The cannabis industry, which is relatively new and grounded in grassroots activism, has both the opportunity and the responsibility to be a more equitable, diverse and inclusive industry than its white-male-dominated predecessors. As of now, the industry is more gender-diverse than other mature industries, but it continues to fall short when it comes to racial diversity (Source: New Frontier Data). Activism is absolutely necessary for the cannabis industry to continue on the journey toward equity that was started so many years ago, and it’s now easier than ever to be an activist.

Cannabis Activism 101

• Educate yourself on the history, science and policies surrounding cannabis prohibition, health benefits and legalization status in your area. Check out Michael Bilow’s recent columns on Motif’s website for the latest on RI legalization efforts (motifri.com/recr-cann-legal-opinion).

• Engage with other like-minded individuals, or have a conversation with someone unfamiliar with the issue. Online resources like social media, podcasts and email newsletters make it easier than ever to stay on top of ever-changing news and policy updates. For more information, NORML, Marijuana Policy Project, Marijuana Today and Marijuana Majority are all worth a follow.

• Advocate for yourself and your community, either in writing or in person. Call or write to your representatives in the State House or write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper if you really want to speak your mind. But the best way to show up for cannabis reform is to show up! Many of the details of cannabis regulation will be decided at the municipal level, so one of the best things you can do is to become a familiar face at your local government meetings and hearings; agendas are often posted online (check to see if cannabis will be discussed), and there is almost always time allotted for public comment. There are also an increasing number of events hosted by organizations like Elevate Northeast and NECANN, as well as public rallies like the Boston Freedom Rally, where you can be among other citizen-activists.

• Donate to organizations that know how to get the job done! Students for Sensible Drug Policy, Americans for Safe Access and the Drug Policy Alliance are all excellent organizations that are worthy of your donation dollars, especially if you are still feeling a little shy about sharing your activist voice with the world.

• Vote! Unfortunately, the Rhode Island constitution does not allow for the legalization of cannabis through a ballot measure, but there is always a chance that a referendum on cannabis could come up that will need your vote. It’s also important to vote for representatives who will stand up for what you believe in!

Activism is a great way to learn, meet people and engage in meaningful conversations about important issues. Just remember to do what fits your schedule and lifestyle, always meet people where they’re at and don’t be too hard on yourself. Stay focused on what you are fighting for and why — and don’t settle for less! The cannabis community is thriving and growing all the time, so whether you get involved because you care about social justice, public policy or individual freedom, or just because you are an enthusiastic consumer, you’re in good company!