As we move through June, a month of significant celebrations and reflections, it is essential to recognize the intersections between cannabis and Pride. Each of these movements embodies a struggle for rights, recognition, and justice. We are uniquely positioned at the crossroads of these important histories and communities at Market 96, a Black-owned and operated social equity dispensary under Blounts & Moore.

Shared History of Activism

The cannabis, LGBTQ+, and Black communities have faced significant legal and social challenges over the years. Activists from these groups have often worked together to advocate for their rights, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and mutual support. The fight for cannabis legalization, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice share common threads: combating stigma, discrimination, and unjust laws.

In the early days of the HIV/AIDS crisis, LGBTQ+ activists, many of whom were people of color, were instrumental in advocating for medical cannabis. Their efforts highlighted the therapeutic potential of cannabis and brought the issue to the forefront of public consciousness. This advocacy played a crucial role in changing public perception and policy, paving the way for the legalization of medical marijuana in many states.

Medical Cannabis Advocacy

The LGBTQ+ community, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS, played a pivotal role in the early advocacy for medical cannabis. In the 1980s and 1990s, activists like Dennis Peron and organizations such as the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club championed the use of cannabis to alleviate the debilitating symptoms of HIV/AIDS. Their efforts were supported by many Black activists who saw the potential for cannabis to help their communities as well.

‍This advocacy not only helped countless patients but also laid the groundwork for broader acceptance and legalization of medical marijuana. Market 96 pays homage to the medical legalization movement in California in 1996, a pivotal year that underscored the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

Social Equity

Both the cannabis and LGBTQ+ movements emphasize social equity. For the cannabis industry, this means addressing the injustices caused by the War on Drugs, which disproportionately affected Black and marginalized communities. Social equity programs aim to provide opportunities for those most impacted by cannabis prohibition, including LGBTQ+ and Black individuals, to participate in the legal cannabis market.

For the LGBTQ+ and Black communities, social equity is about ensuring equal rights and protections for us all. By supporting social equity initiatives in the cannabis industry, we can work towards a more just and inclusive society.

At Market 96 and Blounts & Moore, we are committed to ensuring everyone feels welcome, valued, and included. This includes initiatives such as:

Hiring Practices: Ensuring that hiring practices promote diversity and inclusivity.
Employee Support: Creating supportive work environments that celebrate ALL identities.
Community Engagement: Partnering with LGBTQ+ and Black organizations and collaborating with diverse vendors.

At Market 96, we are committed to supporting the cannabis, LGBTQ+, and community. We believe in creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable industry where everyone can thrive. This June, let's acknowledge and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ and Black individuals to the cannabis movement and continue to fight for a more just and inclusive future.

This Month, Market 96 is excited to offer Pride Market 96 logo shirts in-store to celebrate and show our support for the LGBTQ+ community. These shirts are available for all who wish to display their Pride and solidarity.