As of writing, cannabis has been legalized for recreational use across 18 states—plus the District of Columbia, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands—and the last decade or so has not only seen a sea change in regulation, but in public perception. More and more Americans are expressing interest in consuming the plant both at home and at cannabis-friendly spaces around the country. Figuring out how to do so thoughtfully and responsibly remains a challenge, though, especially when the complex web of rules surrounding cannabis varies state by state. Add on the fact that many consumers don’t see themselves represented in what has typically been a male-dominated industry, and the space can feel largely inaccessible.
As Lauren Yoshiko reports, however, women across the country are creatively shaping safe spaces for both the cannabis curious and experienced to enjoy the plant, whether it be through a historic Detroit home that hosts travelers from around the country or a Portland-based dinner series serving up cannabis-infused dishes. Women are leading brands, too, helping to build an industry that is estimated to be worth over $90 billion by 2026. Take Nidhi Lucky Handa, the founder of Los Angeles-based cannabis lifestyle brand, Leune. She spoke on the Women Who Travel podcast about navigating an industry where female executive representation sits at 22 percent, how her own relationship with cannabis has evolved with her business, and the importance of supporting cannabis criminal justice reform groups at a time when around 40,000 people are currently incarcerated for marijuana offenses in state and federal prisons.
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Published: April 20, 2022
Founder & Interim Editor of L.A. Cannabis News
