Unmasking the Deception: Cannabis Industry Negligence and the Urgent Call to Action

For a decade, Colorado's cannabis industry has flaunted impressive figures — over $15 billion in total cannabis sales, $2.6 billion in state tax revenue, and a workforce employing 35,000 people. Yet, this veneer of success conceals a disturbing reality. This article confronts the smoke and screen, unveiling how privileged big Cannabis businesses, in the political climate of today, are not just negligent but pose a threat to their own economic safety.

The Economic Facade:

Colorado's cannabis industry champions economic prosperity, boasting billions in sales and tax revenue, creating thousands of jobs. However, this financial triumph must be scrutinized against the backdrop of societal negligence. The disparities persist, and the supposed benefits to marginalized communities remain elusive.

In the current political landscape, where social justice movements gain momentum, privileged big Cannabis businesses find themselves in a vulnerable position. Money may have spoken in the past, but the tide is shifting. The consequences of dismissing the deep-rooted issues surrounding their operations are becoming more tangible, making these businesses targets in an environment that demands accountability.

Unveiling Racial Tensions and Educational Disparities:

Beyond the numbers, the youth in areas like North Aurora face racial tensions, education gaps, and mental health challenges. The cannabis industry's negligence exacerbates these issues, perpetuating a cycle of inequality. This is not just about economic disparities; it's about the safety and well-being of Colorado's youth.

Cannabis as a Smoke and Screen:

Privileged big Cannabis businesses use the cannabis narrative as a distraction. This goes beyond white guilt; it's a blatant disregard for the societal responsibility they bear. The political climate demands accountability, and their negligence makes them vulnerable in a landscape that rejects complacency.

The threat of cannabis and other prohibited substances among youth is symptomatic of a more profound problem—radical adult self-responsibility. This issue traces back to the home, emphasizing the crucial role of parenting. In both underprivileged and privileged homes, there exists a convenient obliviousness to injustices that threaten the entire Colorado ecosystem.

Money Talks, But Change Yells Louder:

Social equity advocates hold the key to dismantling this deceptive smoke and screen. Rather than relying on white guilt, redirecting focus towards educating consumers on the dismissal and entitlement to the black dollar becomes a powerful tool. Money may have spoken in the past, but the call for change is getting louder.

Colorado's cannabis industry, once celebrated for its economic prowess, is now under scrutiny for its social responsibilities. The negligence of privileged big Cannabis businesses, coupled with the dangers of complacency in the face of societal issues, amplifies the urgency for change. Social equity advocates have the power to reshape the landscape by educating consumers and redirecting their support. The time is ripe for the cannabis industry to move beyond the smoke and screen, acknowledging its responsibilities, and actively contributing to dismantling systemic inequalities. Failure to do so not only risks financial consequences but also jeopardizes the safety of these businesses in an increasingly aware and demanding political climate.

The Urgency for Responsibility:

In this urgent call to action, privileged big Cannabis businesses must recognize their role in perpetuating the smoke and screen. A stern reckoning is necessary. It's time to move beyond convenient obliviousness, acknowledge societal issues, and actively contribute to dismantling systemic inequalities.

The Millennial dollar is not to be underestimated. As the largest and fastest-growing consumer base, Millennials are conscious of how and with whom they spend their money. Beyond consumerism, Millennials are emerging as a powerful voting bloc, replacing the largest generation of retirees. The consequences of negligence extend beyond financial implications; it's a matter of political and economic survival.

Conclusion: A Call to Action:

Colorado's cannabis industry stands at a crossroads. The smoke and screen, once effective, now unravel in the face of societal awareness. To those in positions of power within the industry, the time for change is now. Acknowledge your responsibilities, actively contribute to dismantling systemic inequalities, and genuinely uplift marginalized communities. Failure to do so not only risks financial consequences but jeopardizes the safety and sustainability of your businesses in an era that demands accountability. The choice is clear — stand on the right side of history and be an agent of positive change.