Editorial By James Bridges
Owner/Publisher Herbage Mag
My eyes and ears are open and I continue to learn. For this, I thank the bright light that continues to burn for the Oklahoma cannabis industry. This industry is in much need of a cooperative forward progression. The industry, once a marginalized and illicit market, has undergone a profound transformation in recent years. With the legalization and decriminalization movements gaining momentum globally, the emergence of a legal cannabis industry seemed promising. However, what was initially seen as a beacon of hope for both financial prosperity and social progress has become marred by the threatening realities of gentrification.
The financial battles faced by the legal cannabis industry are myriad. While the Oklahoma industry was initially fueled by the dreams of small-scale growers, the rise of corporate interests has threatened their very existence. Large corporations with substantial financial resources and political influence have begun revealing themselves and continue to attempt to push out those who have dedicated their lives to cultivating this plant.
The burdensome financial barriers to entry have hindered the growth of small businesses. Exorbitant licensing fees, excessive taxation, and strict regulations have created a playing field that is heavily skewed in favor of deep-pocketed investors. This not only stifles the opportunities for budding entrepreneurs but also perpetuates income inequality and widens the gap between the rich and the marginalized communities who have disproportionately suffered under cannabis prohibition.
Let’s not forget! A lack of access to affordable licensing and regulatory compliance resources further marginalizes small-scale growers, impeding their ability to thrive in the industry.
Waking up to new rules and regulations set forth by those who continue to debate the “correct” way our industry should be operated has become a “normal” activity. Let’s just say, it’s not an activity that is craved by any that I have met in the industry .
The cannabis industry has become a breeding ground for money grabs and ignorant law-making. Over-regulation and convoluted legal frameworks have created a system where bureaucratic red tape suffocates innovation and hampers progress. Laws are often crafted without sufficient understanding of the plant’s medicinal properties or the needs of patients and consumers.
The involvement of big pharmaceutical companies and other corporate interests has further complicated the landscape. Instead of focusing on the therapeutic potential of cannabis, these entities seek to exploit the industry for profit, often sidelining the well-being of patients and consumers. The excessive regulation and taxation also lead to inflated prices, making legal cannabis products unaffordable for many who could benefit from them.
Despite these challenges, we should not lose hope for the future of the cannabis industry. As society becomes more aware of the injustices and exploitative practices, there is growing momentum to address these issues. Grassroots movements advocating for fair regulations, social equity programs, and restorative justice are gaining traction, signaling a shift in priorities.
Moreover, the increasing acceptance of cannabis as a legitimate medicine and its potential for various applications has led to a surge in research and development. Scientific breakthroughs are shedding light on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, ensuring that its medicinal properties cannot be ignored or understated.
By fostering a more inclusive and equitable industry, empowering small-scale growers, and prioritizing the well-being of patients and consumers, we can ensure that the future of the cannabis industry remains bright. Through education, advocacy, and collective action, we have the power to reshape the narrative surrounding cannabis and build a thriving industry that benefits all stakeholders, not just the privileged few.
We in Oklahoma and beyond need a renewed focus on equity, justice, and community empowerment, we can navigate the murky waters and forge a path towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for the cannabis industry. By learning from the past and fighting against those seeking to exploit this medicinal treasure, we can ensure that the promise of cannabis is fulfilled, enriching the lives of individuals and communities worldwide.
