First Nations Cannabis Culture
The Benefits of the Marijuana Industry to First Nations cannabis culture:
Economic Development
The self-regulating marijuana industry present among indigenous populations in Canada has enabled First Nations to gain strength in recent years. With a great diversity of strains, from the heavy-flavoured “Chernobyl” to the fruit-infused “Shangri La”, First Nations receive a unique source of economic development through cannabis production and sale.
Historic Roots
The usage of cannabis is recorded as early as 1000AD among indigenous groups who considered the crop treasured for its psychoactive effects during spiritual and medicinal ceremonies, rituals and celebrations.
Regulation
Political circles in Canada consider granting free custom regulation to First Nations over the production and sale of marijuana. This allows local elders within the community to oversee their regulation, much like it was done centuries ago.
Economic Benefits
The economic opportunities that have been granted to First Nations have proved monumental. Growing demand and ample space have enabled First Nations to build their economies around cannabis production. Financial prosperity has predominantly been seen in communities previously challenged by poverty.
Additional Benefits
First Nations have seen vast improvements to infrastructure, healthcare and mental health services due to the production and sale of marijuana. Cannabis has also enabled increased access to recreational and educational opportunities and combat the stigma against marijuana’s usage.
Conclusion
Despite unfavourable economic and social conditions, the First Nations have benefited significantly from the resources available to them. The rise in cannabis production and sale has enabled greater economic strength and fewer social stigmas, proving that marijuana is a much more beneficial commodity than it is credited to be.