We\u2019ve been hearing a lot about decisions to deny canna-businesses the opportunity to open up here in Grand County. But why? In part, you can blame cannabis prohibitionists and big industry competitors, such as pharmaceuticals and tobacco, but what may be even more prominent is the stigma that has attached itself to cannabis and its users.<\/p>\n
The stigma comes from decades of misinformation and demonization. Nixon\u2019s war on drugs and the era of Reefer Madness are only two examples of a gross brainwashing of American citizens. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s now 2019. In Colorado, we\u2019ve come a long way from these dark times, but the good fight still isn\u2019t over. I hear it all the time, \u201cWeed makes you lazy,\u201d \u201cI would never do weed,\u201d and \u201cWeed is for losers.\u201d But that\u2019s not the case at all!<\/p>\n
Most of my customers are honest, hardworking people. They\u2019re business professionals, people of faith, chefs, lawyers, veterans, cancer survivors, medical practitioners, single mothers, musicians, senior citizens, the list could go on and on.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s high time to put \u201cthe lazy stoner\u201d stereotype aside. Factual science and statistics now demonstrate the daily benefits and medicinal uses for cannabis. It\u2019s about more than just another pot shop opening up. It should be about people having the quick access to the type of medicine or simple relief that helps them live comfortable lives. It\u2019s not as bad as the lies you\u2019ve been told.<\/p>\n
I witnessed my grandmother suffer from bi-polar disorder, and a number of other crippling illnesses and medications, before she passed. I wish I had been able to get cannabis to her before she was gone forever. Just maybe, she\u2019d still be here today. Let\u2019s lose the stigma, and embrace change. For everyone.<\/p>\n