The Cannabis Equity Mirage: Why Black Women Are Still Left Behind in the “Green Rush”
Less than 0.34% of venture capital funding in the cannabis industry goes to Black women. That stark statistic, revealed in a 2024 Forbes research study, isn’t just a number – it’s a flashing warning sign that the promise of social equity in the burgeoning cannabis market is largely unfulfilled. While recreational use expands across the country, and even becomes casually accessible as in New York, the economic benefits are overwhelmingly flowing to those who were not harmed by the decades-long War on Drugs.
The Broken Promise of Social Equity
The push for legalization often hinges on the argument of restorative justice – a chance to right the wrongs of disproportionate enforcement that decimated Black and Brown communities. Programs designed to prioritize licensing for individuals impacted by cannabis prohibition were established with good intentions. However, as highlighted in the new documentary Kiss My Grass, and echoed by industry leaders like Mary Pryor, these programs are frequently hampered by systemic obstacles and a lack of genuine support.
“Social equity is a myth, especially under the current presidential administration,” Pryor asserts, a sentiment shared by Kim James, Detroit’s director of cannabis affairs. James describes the licensing process as a “challenge from day one,” pointing to the difficulty in securing funding and connections – essential ingredients for success that remain largely inaccessible to marginalized entrepreneurs.
Navigating a Minefield of Obstacles
The hurdles extend far beyond initial licensing. Finding affordable real estate, establishing reliable supply chains, and competing with established players all present significant challenges. Sahir Al-Salam, featured in Kiss My Grass, recounts experiences with predatory deals and false promises from accelerator programs, leading to debt and disillusionment. “It’s not the industry that’s keeping us going—it’s the camaraderie and the community that we have built with each other, because we believe in each other,” she explains.
This reliance on community is a critical finding. The documentary, executive produced by Rosario Dawson and Colin Kaepernick, doesn’t shy away from the emotional toll the industry takes, citing job insecurity, emotional distress, and the devaluation of Black labor. It’s a stark contrast to the narrative of the “green rush” often portrayed in mainstream media.
The Declining Funding Landscape
The dwindling flow of venture capital further exacerbates the problem. Jess Jackson, Director of Social Equity for Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management, notes a significant decline in funding since 2019, dropping from billions to less than half a billion dollars. This shift undermines the very premise of cannabis as a generational wealth-building opportunity for those most affected by prohibition. The dream of a financial turnaround is fading for many.
Beyond Funding: The Mental Health Impact
The constant struggle for survival in a hostile environment takes a heavy toll on mental health. Al-Salam describes the exhausting need to constantly adapt and “shift” to stay afloat. The pressure to overcome systemic barriers, coupled with the inherent risks of a rapidly evolving industry, creates a uniquely stressful environment for Black women entrepreneurs. This underscores the need for accessible mental health resources tailored to the specific challenges faced within the cannabis industry.
Looking Ahead: Building a Truly Equitable Future
The situation demands a fundamental shift in approach. Simply creating programs isn’t enough; meaningful access to capital, mentorship, and technical assistance is crucial. Furthermore, a critical examination of the regulatory frameworks is needed to identify and dismantle barriers that disproportionately impact marginalized communities.
The success of the cannabis industry shouldn’t come at the expense of those it promised to uplift. The stories shared in Kiss My Grass serve as a powerful reminder that true equity requires more than just legalization – it demands intentionality, accountability, and a genuine commitment to dismantling systemic inequalities. What are your predictions for the future of cannabis equity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
