This Pride month we’re highlighting LGBTQ+ brands that focus on celebrating human diversity. The brands we feature bring diverse groups of people together through their mission and products.
The path that led to the legalization of cannabis was blazed by self-identified queer activists decades ago. Since then, the LGBTQ+ community and the cannabis community have been tightly intertwined, and both communities have long been allies of each other.
The plant has played a historic role in the LGBTQ+ community. In the ‘70s, the HIV/AIDS virus ravaged LGBTQ+ communities. The United States government – and far too many leaders in the media, finance, medical, and pharmaceutical communities – looked the other way and/or stigmatized people living with HIV/AIDS. The ramifications of helplessly watching gruesome deaths, but finding that cannabis was significant and helpful for both the dying and for caretakers. Numerous members of LGBTQ+ communities are outspoken activists for cannabis.
The cannabis movement and gay rights movement gained momentum at overlapping times and were also based on advocating for ostracized populations. Both movements were combating legislation that disproportionately restricts the liberties of disenfranchised communities at higher rates than those of privileged ones.
These communities came together and spearheaded a massive movement. Here are 5 LGBTQ+ cannabis brands continuing to bring communities together through their missions and products:
Drew Martin
Drew Martin is a 100% queer-owned brand that elevates the communal rituals of smoking to a new level. Rolling and smoking cannabis is a ritual that has connected people all over the world. Drew Martin believes that the culture and connection aspects of cannabis have taken a backseat in the modern world. Drew strives to bring back the communal aspect of sharing a joint by creating low-THC joints infused with other medicinal herbs such as peppermint, rose, and lavender.
In an interview with MedMen, Drew Martin said, “Being queer in the cannabis industry means that we have a unique responsibility to fight for cannabis justice…We get to enjoy working with and consuming this plant freely today because of the sacrifices of our queer forebearers.”
Drink Cann
Whether it be alcohol or caffeine, drinking is a big part of social activities, and often social activities congregate around beverages. Cann developed the “social tonic” for consuming cannabis in a social setting. Cann is the first micro-dose cannabis beverage. Luke Anderson, co-Founder of Cann, said, “It’s perfect for someone who is new to cannabis and wants to try cannabis and still feel comfortable.” It’s the potency of a beer or glass of wine, designed for consumers to be able to have more than 1, making it the perfect social beverage. Plus, the flavors are delicious, bubbly, and refreshing.
sunset sesh: The future of cannabis beverages with Luke Anderson, CEO of Cann
Copper House Detroit
Cooper House Detroit, co-founded by Black, queer couple Jess and Cara Jackson, is a home space for consumption-friendly events and accommodations, bringing the community together around cannabis. Built in 1932, the Copper House infuses copper into its aesthetic throughout each room. “We have copper bongs, copper lighters, and copper ashtrays,” Jackson said. Overnight guests have access to the entire home and a private locked room. Guests also have access to their decarboxylation machine to make their own infused oils and all kinds of butter. Each morning, visitors can cook their own infused breakfast with their waffle maker.
In May 2022, FlowerHire hosted an event at Copper House in Detroit to bring the cannabis community together. Check out the event.
Blunt Skin Care
Blunt Skin Care is founded by Stas Chirkov who is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. After seeing misinformation about cannabis, Chirkob created a cannabis-focused skincare company that’s rooted in science, transparent, and prioritizes sustainable materials and quality ingredients. The all-natural skincare brand is passionate about cannabis, justice, and premium cosmetic chemistry.
House of Saka
House of Saka was co-founded by Cynthia Salarizadeh and Tracey Mason with the goal of creating the world’s first line of luxury, cannabis-infused products made by and for women. House of Saka’s Vinfusions integrate state-of-the-art infusion technology and Napa Valley wine to create a legendary wine without the booze.
The FlowerHire team asks you to welcome and embrace individuality. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it’s also the smart thing to do. The people on your team are your best asset. And people perform best when you support their full self-expression.
Reach out to a FlowerHire cannabis recruiter to find a cannabis job or find cannabis employees.