It's about time we normalize weed. Come on, it's 2021 and practically everyone is reaping the health benefits of marijuana, whether with CBD alone or with the psychoactive THC. We can find marijuana in many forms these days too, from gummies to chips to infused water in addition to weed flower, tinctures, and topicals. Keep reading to find out how YOU can help normalize weed once and for all and remove the cultural stigma.
Normalize weed for the economy
Due to the economic impact of COVID-19, provincial and federal governments alike have found themselves at a crossroads: further expand and solidify cannabis access or suffer the financial consequences. COVID-19 proved to be more than a health crisis…it remains an economical one as well with so many of us out of a job. Experts say that one of the best ways to support economic recovery is to ensure robust legal frameworks for marijuana for both medical and recreational use. After all, Canada's cannabis industry can benefit from marijuana revenue now more than ever.
Call it by a different name
Lingual experts suggest we should give marijuana a proper name and use its scientific one when talking with others. Nicknames like "pot" and "weed" sound less than; slightly more unprofessional and illegitimate. If we want marijuana use to be taken seriously, let's agree to call it by its grown-up name—no more "ganja" or "Mary Jane." Imagine if you had to explain to your boss that you partake for medical reasons.
Educate younger generations
It's true what they say: kids are the future. They will set the tone for years to come in all areas of life: politics, religion, health, education, etc. If we want to normalize weed and make the world a better place, it starts with the education of the younger generations. Teach your kids about marijuana, including all the pros and cons so they have a well-rounded outlook rather than a biased one. And maybe, once your child reaches the legal age in your province and expresses interest in marijuana use, you can be the first one to share that experience with them.
Avoid the stereotypes
Forget what you've seen on TV or in movies—the effects of marijuana come with valuable benefits other than lounging on the couch all day with the munchies—not that there's anything wrong with that, it's just not the full picture. Those unfamiliar with marijuana may think that it makes users lazy, unmotivated, and lethargic…but that's not entirely true! Some marijuana strains provide the exact opposite effects with elevated energy, creativity, and motivation. Don't let your friends and family fall for the media stereotypes.
Vote, vote, vote
Do you want to live in a more cannabis-friendly Canada? If so, you need to vote! And vote consistently election after election! The candidate you vote into office—whether at the provincial or federal level—may hold the key to future marijuana laws and regulations. Elected officials have the power to shape cannabis policy from all angles. With cannabis already legal nationally under the Cannabis Act, our focus now turns to how our representatives continue to refine and improve those laws, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 financial crisis.
Haven't we normalised weed yet?
How do we know when we've reached our goal of normalising weed? At what point do we see the light at the end of the tunnel? In part, yes, we have done a fair amount of work over the years to normalise cannabis…but more work must be done! These are some signs that we're making progress.
- Cannabis tax money goes to help schools
- Cannabis-themed weddings become more common
- Cities host cannabis-crawls for tourists
- People meet each other on cannabis dating apps
- More provinces expand and refine cannabis access this year
That last factor is key. One of the best and most influential ways to normalise weed stems from strong provincial and federal laws. Please, please, please: no more penalties for people found with reasonable amounts of marijuana in their pockets or in their vehicles. Lawmakers must continue to refine and strengthen the Cannabis Act as the crucial next step, and follow through with policies that protect all Canadians while keeping the regulated market fair and accessible.