Recreational cannabis has become legal in several states including California, Massachusetts, and Maine with local entrepreneurs cashing in on the new legal status. The cannabis industry generates billions of dollars and yet black entrepreneurs are often left out of business opportunities despite the disproportionate number of black and brown people incarcerated across the United States for low-level marijuana convictions. One activist is looking to use the current COVID-19 pandemic to change the stigma around cannabis and leverage it for new business opportunities.
Solonje Burnett is a pro-cannabis advocate and co-founder of the cannabis immersive education and advocacy platform Humble Bloom
with a mission to equalize the cannabis industry. The Brooklyn-based activist is looking to educate people about the healing benefits of marijuana and stands for inclusion for those underrepresented in the industry. Burnett says that cannabis has created a positive change for her and shares the many ways women can utilize it.“Humans are in cages, convicted for something that is no longer a crime, while others are elevated and get the opportunity to build intergenerational wealth doing exactly the same thing,” Burnett tells Refinery29 Unbothered. She is using her platform during COVID-19, or novel coronavirus, quarantine, to urge others to use their platforms to fight for progressive humanist and regenerative solutions. She wants women to know that, even in these uncertain times, there are ways to tap into your wholeness and feel empowered through the use of cannabis.
The CDC does not recommend smoking during this time, however, there are other ways you can medicate. Burnett recommends using CBD and THC in the form of face masks, oils, soaks, drops, body serums, cooling rub, or edibles.
“All of these brands are small businesses owned by women and/or POC,” Burnett adds. “Where and how you spend your money matters more than ever. Instead of buying from Amazon and supporting a billionaire ruthless capitalist. Go direct to the source. You’ll support the USPS, cut out Bezos and give all the profit to these brands.”