Arts & Culture

The LGBTQ Community in the Growing Cannabis Industry

Published

1 year ago

September 13, 2019

There is no denying that the LGBTQ and marijuana communities have some form of connection. In fact, the two have strongly significant relations.

The best way to start tackling the contributions of the LGBTQ and marijuana communities is by introducing Dennis Peron. A member of the LGBTQ himself, Peron is known as one of the first advocates of medical marijuana legalization in the United States. He started pushing for legalization as his partner died of AIDS.

With Propositions P and 215, two ballot initiatives that advocated for medical legalization, MMJ was made accessible in California in 1996. He also established the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club, which is the first public dispensary in the country.

He also worked with LGBTQ hero Harvey Milk to stop San Francisco from arresting and prosecuting individuals who are found growing, distributing and possessing marijuana.

LGBTQ Cannabis Entrepreneurs

With such intertwined histories, the two communities remain to be related until today. In fact, some LGBTQ members are making contributions to the marijuana sector today by way of entrepreneurship. Check out these LGBTQ cannabis entrepreneurs.

Buck Angel

Adult film star and transman Buck Angel decided to enter the legal cannabis market with Pride Wellness, a dispensary that sells marijuana products with the LGBTQ community in mind. The dispensary became an avenue for Angel to talk about their stories and to educate people about the plant. It also has a delivery service that operates in Los Angeles.

Growing up lesbian, Angel found comfort in the company of gay men. He felt accepted and at home with them, which no doubt influenced his decision to help the LGBTQ community in the best way he can. He decided to venture into the industry especially after seeing his friends suffer from AIDS symptoms.

This delivery division employs people from marginalized groups. The service has drivers who are queer and people of color. Aside from Pride Wellness, Angel works with brands such as Quim Rock with the same goals in mind.

Renee Gagnon

Renee Gagnon is a transwoman and founder of HollyWeed, a Canada-based marijuana dispensary. Before establishing HollyWeed, she founded Thunderbird Biomedical (called Emerald Health Therapeutics later on), which is one of the four companies that participated in Canada’s medical cannabis research and development initiative.

However, there were concerns at Emerald regarding her transition affecting the desirability of the company in the eyes of potential investors. Because of this, she stepped down from her position and chose to mentor female entrepreneurs in the sector. She went on to establish HollyWeed.

Jamie McCormick

Queer entrepreneur Jamie McCormick is also thriving in the marijuana sector. Also known as Flower Daddy, McCormick works as a florist and event planner who gives his events a twist. He incorporates cannabis in his work, from placing the plant in his flower arrangements to arranging a wedding complete with a marijuana bar which offered a rolling area, infused edibles, chocolate fountain, and a CBD station.

Through his work, he aims to break down stereotypes regarding enthusiasts. In fact, some of his clients even replace the traditional first toast to a more theme-appropriate first toke. His events remain elegant but more spontaneous, thanks to the plant.

To expand his business, he worked to establish his very own retail florist shop in LA.

Zairilla Bacon

Lastly, cannabis chef and lesbian woman of color Zairilla Bacon is making waves in the industry. As a queer woman of color, Bacon has experienced discrimination when finding clients for her cooking business. In fact, one client who was highly impressed by her reputation turned her down because of her identity.

However, she finds the landscape much easier to navigate today, especially with the public becoming more open-minded. Bacon now cooks for popular celebrities such as Mike Tyson, 2 Chainz and Tommy Chong. She also sees to it that her fellow people of color and members of the community get the help they need.

Ways to Support the Marijuana Industry

Knowing how the LGBTQ community has contributed to the emergence of the marijuana legalization we know today is pretty enlightening. If you are looking for ways to show your support to the cannabis community, here are the best ways that you can do so:

Only Buy from Legit Dispensaries

One of the main things that shed a negative light on the plant is underground selling. Black market product only paints the plant as an illicit substance, even when we now have legal stores which you can buy from. So, it is important to make it a point that you buy your supply only from legitimate retailers. This way, you can guarantee that the product complies with safety and health regulations, while also supporting the legal marijuana industry.

In connection with this, buying from legitimate dispensaries contribute to the strengthening of the market. Remember, investors seek to make money when they invest in any kind of market. By purchasing from legal retailers, you are showing investors that the industry is a viable and profitable investment. This can make the industry flourish even more in the future.

Use Responsibly

Aside from black market products, another source of the negative reputation of the plant is irresponsible to use. While marijuana has a whole lot of benefits, it can react negatively with other substances such as alcohol and illicit drugs such as LSD, heroin, and cocaine.

According to studies, mixing alcohol and THC will intensify the hallucinatory effect of the plant. This is because the liver prioritizes the metabolization of alcohol, leading to the accumulation of THC before it can be processed. The increased effect can cause impaired judgment which can then lead to dangerous situations. Other potential effects include dehydration, issues with vomiting and increased side effects.

For your safety and those of other people around you, make sure that you consume the plant responsibly. This can help not only in reducing unfortunate incidents but also in building the reputation of cannabis is a beneficial plant.

Seek Out Passionate Establishments

If you advocate for anything, you only seek out sources that also support your causes. For example, environment-advocates only patronize companies that take steps to become environment-friendly. The same goes for advocates of animal welfare, education and equality.

So, if you are looking for a place that will replenish your cannabis supply, you might want to look for a passionate dispensary. Of course, most of these establishments are passionate about the plant, so that is definitely a plus. However, it is no secret that some can take advantage of its popularity just to make money without recognizing the roots of the plant. This is why it is important to look for companies that truly adore marijuana including its benefits and history.

Advocate for Legalization

What better way to show your support for the industry than to advocate for its legalization? After all, we now have access to medical and recreational marijuana because of the people who fought for its legalization. Unfortunately, years and years of prejudice against the plant has been inculcated in the public’s consciousness.

This is why it is all the more important to show your support for cannabis. There are many ways you can advocate for the plant. Simply recommending CBD oil and other cannabis-infused products to your friends and family can be a huge help. Moreover, voting for legalization is instrumental. After all, some states have legalized the plant through ballot initiatives.

Dispel Misconceptions

While you may understand the benefits of this plant, there is no doubt that many individuals have misconceptions regarding cannabis. The best way to address such myths is to dispel them. So, why not educate your friend about the medical uses of cannabis?

Even for recreational purposes, the plant is proven to be useful. You can also inform them of the benefits of CBD even to everyday life. Who knows, you might end up turning them into advocates, increasing the number of individuals supporting the plant! Moreover, you will surely change their life simply by introducing them to its wonders.

Uphold Cannabis Values

In supporting the marijuana community, another important thing you should remember is that many enthusiasts are known to be peace-loving and very chill individuals. In fact, the hippie counterculture in the 1960s is known for its slogan, “Make Love Not War.” The Psychedelic 60s and 70s is teeming with calls for peace, love, freedom, and equality.

With these values closely linked to the cannabis community, it is important that we uphold such values, especially in light of the connection between the two communities.

Just like Taylor Swift sang, “Shade never made anybody less gay,” or in this case, it never made anybody less enthusiastic about cannabis. In fact, the years of marijuana prohibition only resulted in a stronger push toward legalization.

With the successful businesses and contributions of the LGBTQ community to the cannabis industry, marijuana enthusiasts certainly have an ally in these people. Likewise, the cannabis industry is opening up to queer individuals showing how intertwined the two communities are.

Related Topics:cannabis Cornerstone LGBT LGBTQ Marijuana

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Arts & Culture

Here’s How to Use CBD Safely Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Published

5 months ago

August 30, 2020

Jordan Webber

Here’s How to Use CBD Safely Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, shortly called COVID-19, has caused an unprecedented and dramatic impact on communities all over the world – including CBD enthusiasts. As governments from different states and countries impose home quarantine and social distancing policies, it is only natural that users of this popular compound are facing drastic changes in their ways of consumption in order to keep up with the protocols.

If you’re one among these users, knowing what the dos and don’ts are when using CBD products like portable vaporizers amid a pandemic is necessary to ensure a safe and fun CBD experience. To help you achieve that, we have prepared a list of the things you need to keep in mind while threats of the deadly disease is still a worldwide problem.

Read on.

Things to Do – How to Use CBD Safely

Buy Only from Reputable Dispensaries

As the health crisis worsens, supplies for resources are also expected to shrink, including CBD. Since there is an ongoing protocol for everyone to stay at home and practice social distancing, some suppliers of cannabidiol are expected to stop their operations. As a result, consumers are to be left with limited store choices, which fraudsters can take advantage for their personal gains.

In times like this, when transactions are primarily done online, it’s best to ensure that the one you’re seeking supply of CBD for is a legit and reliable dispensary.

To prevent the risk of falling victim to criminals, it’s best to limit your options to reputable stores only. Before heading straight into the checkout and providing your credit card information, make a habit of conducting a background check on the site you’re visiting first. Once you’ve verified that the details provided are true and that the store actually operates as a legal supplier, it is then that you can only start picking the products you want to get from the site.

Consider How Much THC the Product Contains

While it’s a popular belief that CBD works best with a little THC, it’s always a safe bet to get a product that only contains as low as the 0.3 percent cutoff required for CBD products. That is exactly what LA Fresh CBD touts in its products.

Primarily, this is because THC works as a psychoactive component, which means taking a dose of it can drive you straight into the cloud nine, or what people call the marijuana “high.” Since the COVID-19 pandemic has left the economy almost immobile, finding yourself in an unpleasant and dangerous level of head high will leave you helpless, as people are expected to stay on their homes, establishments are normally closed, and medical professionals are busy responding to the needs of the swelling number of infected patients.

Don’t Share

Sure, while cannabis enthusiasts live by a communal way of life, now’s not the time to remain faithful to that culture. Essentially, since the novel coronavirus has been proven to be transmittable via respiratory droplets and contact routes, sharing your vaping device with your favorite pals is a big no-no.

Aside from this, although it’s a known fact that CBD oils, gummies, and other related products are more satisfying when shared in groups, practicing social distancing of at least 1 meter or 3 feet is still more important to secure your safety amid the outbreak.

The Bottom Line

In this time of medical and economic upheaval, aligning your every action to what’s proper and necessary should be everyone’s top priority. Sure, while you’re still free to enjoy your favorite CBD products, practicing these necessary measures come as a compulsory action from anyone in the community.

Arts & Culture

CBD Oil a Growing Trend in the Japanese Market

Published

6 months ago

July 19, 2020

Carissa Stevens

CBD Oil has definitely been gaining ground in various parts of the world, especially in the more progressive socio-political climate of the United States. More than half of the states in the US have legalized cannabis and its cannabinoids for medicinal purposes, while 10 of them has allowed recreational consumption.

Because of the medicinal properties of CBD, a particular chemical compound found in cannabis, more and more people in the United States are taking on a more positive attitude toward cannabidiol. This cannabinoid is also legal in many parts of Europe.

While the relatively positive perception of CBD in more progressive regions comes as no surprise, learning that this compound is becoming a trend in the more conservative country of Japan is fairly unexpected. Read on to know more about CBD oil in the Japanese market.

How Popular is Cannabidiol in Japan?

Cannabidiol is fast gaining popularity in Japan. In fact, it is becoming more popular by 100% year over year. CBD Oil and Cannabidiol products are so popular that they are now available in various health food stores in the country. They come in various kinds, especially in cosmetic products and oils.

Reasons Why Cannabidiol is Popular in the Japanese Market

You may be wondering why this cannabinoid has become so popular in this largely conservative country. Here are some of the factors that contribute to its popularity.

It is Legal in Japan

Perhaps one of the most important reasons why cannabidiol has become so well-liked in Japan is the fact that it is legal. Residents can purchase this product online and offline. However, there are legal guidelines to follow when buying online, especially from abroad. The only legal CBD products are those containing less than 0.03% THC. Any amount over this percentage will be punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a 3 million yen fine.

Because of this, you want to purchase products from a Japanese manufacturer, as they legally produce such items. Buying offline in Japanese stores is the safer bet, especially as those sold within the country are more likely to follow regulations.

If you are curious whether you can cultivate a cannabis plant, even hemp, for CBD, keep in mind that these plants are bound to contain THC levels, which you cannot control as you grow the plant. So, it is safe to say that it is not legal to grow a plant even for cannabidiol.

Its Benefits

Another important factor that contributed to the popularity of this cannabinoid is that it is known to have skincare and health benefits. In terms of skincare, CBD is known to regulate the skin, which means that you can use it to control sebum production if over-oiliness is your problem, and it can also increase it if dry skin is the issue. Infused products include toners, serums and creams.

In terms of health and wellness, this compound has been proven to be effective in pain relief, anti-inflammation, energy-boosting, mood-enhancing and anti-stress. It also has calming and relaxing effects, perfect for those struggling with mental health issues.

Ms. World Japan’s CBD Oil Brand

Ms. World Japan 2016 Priyanka Yoshikawa also contributed to boosting the demand for this compound. She launched her own brand of infused products, focusing primarily on skincare and oils. With the support of such a prominent figure, this chemical is bound to gain popularity in the country.

Japan is taking the next step toward health and wellness with its lenient policies on CBD products. With this country acknowledging the benefits of such products, this cannabinoid is definitely getting the recognition it deserves.

Arts & Culture

10 Famous athletes who support the use of Cannabis

Published

8 months ago

May 13, 2020

Daniel King

Hectic schedules, rigorous training, simultaneous injuries, and bizarre sleep routine are the inevitable and arduous part of being an athlete. Treatments often involve conventional synthetic drugs that can have plenty of side-effects. The legalization of Cannabis in various countries has helped develop a natural alternative that is comparatively safer and effective for the athletes.

Cannabis or Marijuana is a natural drug that constitutes CBD or Cannabidiol, which is the main component that has loads of medical and therapeutic benefits. It has a long history with athletes for pain management, speedy recovery, and psychological well-being. Not long ago, sports authorities considered Cannabis as a performance-enhancing drug and prohibited its use. But in-depth study supports the abundant health benefits of Cannabis without altering the performance level.

The growth in the Cannabis market is marked by the surge of licensed dispensaries and online Cannabis sales. Market leaders, as well as startups, are coming up with lucrative offers on different Cannabis products that target physical care to severe health problems. It’s no surprise that many athletes are now venturing to promote Cannabis through endorsement and partnerships. Here is the list of some of the Cannabis evangelist players.

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1. Cliff Robinson

A former American NBA Hall of Fame player who has a long career of 18 years, Clifford Robinson, is a firm supporter of Cannabis. The former pro player admits that he used Cannabis throughout his profession to keep anxiety under check. Suspended thrice for using Marijuana, Robinson now owns a Cannabis brand, Uncle Cliffy. This company focuses on the two major problems faced by athletes, muscle recovery, and pain relief through Cannabis.

2. Eugene Monroe

This former NFL player of the U.S. has used Cannabis to tackle the severe pain that a football player often faces. Monroe is the first NFL player who supported the usage of medical Marijuana while active in the game. He reprimanded the NFL for not letting players use Marijuana, which he feels is a much safer and effective drug to use. Although It did cost him his further association with the team, he continued to advocate in favor of Cannabis. In 2016, Monroe became the partner and diversity consultant with a cannabis consumer packaged goods company named Green Thumb Industries.

3. Mike Tyson

Spreading over 40 acres of marijuana ranch and estimated income of more than half a million pounds in a month, Mike Tyson is the owner of the famous Cannabis empire. The former heavyweight champion owns Tyson Holistic Holdings and Tyson Ranch, a company that offers a range of quality Cannabis products. Once under the influence of substance use, Tyson says Marijuana helps him to become calmer. He thus promotes awareness about Cannabis among sportsmen for reducing the physical and mental health-related problems. His company is also funding CTE research, a nerve disease caused by head injuries, and is one of the leading manufacturers of jack herer seeds CBD isolates in the country.

4. Floyd Landis

A former American Cyclist, Landis won the 2006 Tour de France, but soon he lost his title to doping. In 2016, Landis launched Floyd’s of Leadville, a Cannabis company that aims to provide help to people suffering from various physical and mental health problems.

5. Bubba Watson

Watson is a renowned American Golfer with numerous accolades. In 2019 Bubba announced his long term partnership with a Famous Cannabis Company cbdMD. CBD for golf isn’t exactly new but there has been a buzz in the golf scene ever since his announcement. He is investing and endorsing this brand as he completely trusts its products and used it personally. He promotes the all-natural products of the company to help people suffering from different ailments and provide long term relief from them.

6. Megan Rapinoe

Named as Best Women’s FIFA player, Rapinoe is a famous American Soccer player. She is the latest eminent athlete to join the Cannabis bandwagon. Rapinoe is endorsing a startup firm The MendiCo., started by her sister. Megan herself supports the use of Cannabis which helps her to train efficiently and recover at a faster pace.Similarly,you can also procure multiple cannabis strains from online dispensary canada and reap all benefits.

7. Amy Van Dyken

The eminent 6 times Olympic Gold Medalist in Swimming, Van Dyken, is a spokeswoman for Kannaway, a Cannabis company. According to Van Dyken, she chose to endorse this brand as she has witnessed the benefits of Cannabis herself. She encountered a road accident in 2014 and suffered from paralysis. During this time she got relief from the mental and physical trauma by using Cannabis-based medicines. Van Dyken thus recommends Cannabis products to all who suffer chronic pain and discomfort.

8. Riley Cote

A famous Ice Hockey player hailing from Canada, Cote is a thorough user of Cannabis since his NHL (National Hockey League) days. After retirement, he founded the Hemp Heals Foundation that promotes the use of Hemp to improve the quality of lives of people suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, slower recovery, and other problems. Cote is also a member of the Pennsylvania Hemp Industry Council and co-founder of Athletes for Care that helps provide athletes with relatively safer ways of healing.

9. Ricky Williams

This former NFL player has seen numerous failed drug tests and suspensions due to Cannabis use in his career but that didn’t stop him from supporting and preaching several benefits of the plant. At present Ricky owns a Cannabis company, Real Wellness that infuses chamomile, peppermint, passionflower, and other herbs with Cannabis extracts. These herbs help to target the nervous system to treat many health issues.

10. Ross Rebagliati

This Canadian Snowboarder rose to fame by winning a gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan. But he was soon stripped of his fame due to traces of Marijuana found in his body. Ross protested and won back his medal as Marijuana was not on the list of banned substances. He now owns two Cannabis companies Legacy and Ross’s Gold which offers various medical Cannabis products for the athletes.

With more athletes coming in support of Cannabis, the CBD is removed from the list of prohibited substances by WADA. Even the upcoming Summer Olympics will see the use of medical Marijuana for plenty of health problems and it will be interesting to see the effects of marijuana on bodybuilding and other forms of training. With further research, soon, Cannabis is going to rule the world of medicine and prove to be the treatment for various ailment encountered by athletes.