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Weed, marijuana, pot, ganja, herb, or cannabis—whatever term you prefer, this substance has long been categorized as a gateway drug, with users often stigmatized as either stoners or criminals. While many individuals, including women, may use cannabis, societal norms often prevent them from openly admitting it due to lingering stigma.
In recent years, attitudes toward cannabis in the U.S. have shifted dramatically, yet disparities in how individuals are treated regarding its use remain stark. Particularly among people of color, and especially Black women, the stigma surrounding cannabis is compounded by fears of criminal consequences, even in states where it is legal.
Let’s be real: the prevailing images of cannabis users typically feature white male skaters or portrayals of Black individuals as drug dealers or gangsters. Rarely do we see everyday people, such as the neighbor next door or a professional woman, represented as users. However, a glance at social media reveals that more women are advocating for cannabis use, whether recreationally or medicinally.
Yet many Black women feel they cannot freely express their cannabis usage due to societal judgment and the risk of legal repercussions. The criminalization of cannabis in Black and brown communities has deep roots, dating back to the War on Drugs initiated in the 1960s. Today, despite a burgeoning $61 billion cannabis industry, the benefits are largely reaped by white males, leaving those most affected by past penalization out of the equation.
The ACLU highlights that racial disparities in marijuana possession arrests remain prevalent, with Black individuals being 3.64 times more likely to be arrested for cannabis-related charges than their white counterparts, despite similar usage rates among young adults. For example, in 2016, more than 90% of marijuana possession arrests in Atlanta involved African Americans, with Black women being arrested for cannabis offenses at twice the rate of white men.
The generational impact of the war on drugs weighs heavily on Black women, who also navigate stereotypes such as the “angry Black woman” and the hyper-sexualized “Jezebel.” These societal expectations further complicate their relationship with cannabis, as any deviation from accepted norms can carry severe consequences.
While we are beginning to see more diverse representations of women using cannabis in less stigmatizing roles—such as Mary Louise Parker in “Weeds” and Kathy Bates in “Disjointed”—the narrative often excludes women of color. Although cannabis use is becoming normalized, it is essential to ensure that women of color are included in this evolving conversation.
As of now, 36 U.S. states and 4 territories have legalized cannabis for medical purposes, with 17 states and 2 territories, plus Washington, D.C., allowing recreational use for those 21 and older. While legalization is a step towards destigmatization, it is vital to recognize that not everyone is afforded the same privilege. According to Ivy Ann Rosado in Filter Magazine, “Legalization needs to occur alongside a larger cultural shift.” The perception of Black women in society extends far beyond cannabis; it involves how they are viewed in all facets of life.
So, while it’s great to celebrate the progress in cannabis legalization, we must acknowledge that not all individuals share the same freedom in enjoying this privilege. For more on the topic of home insemination and family planning, check out this informative blog post or learn more about at-home insemination kits from Make a Mom. The CDC also provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, while the cannabis industry continues to flourish and attitudes shift towards acceptance, it is crucial to recognize the unequal treatment faced by Black women. Their experiences highlight the need for a broader cultural change that includes all voices in the conversation.