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Social Justice and Cannabis is for anyone interested in social justice reform and how cannabis and the cannabis industry factor into past, present, and future social justice movements.


The course provides curious adults a foundational understanding of the dynamics linking cannabis with social justice in an accessible, interactive, and engaging format. 

You will learn

  • Learn what cannabis is, how it has been used, and why it was prohibited in the United States until recently.
  • Understand basic definitions of social justice.
  • Comprehend how the war on drugs and the prison system has impacted communities.
  • Investigate how prisons can be reformed, and how we can implement automatic expungement of cannabis criminal records. 
  • Understand the dynamics of creating an inclusive, fair cannabis industry.
  • Elucidate concrete steps which can be taken to help People of Color, women, veterans, and LGBTQ+ people succeed in the cannabis industry.
  • Understand how some organizations have used unique, innovative approaches to help create a socially equitable cannabis community.
  • Become knowledgeable about cannabis social justice policies and strategies instituted by states across the country to bolster equity in the new industry, as well as in social reform programs.

Best for: Members of the cannabis industry and broader cannabis community looking to learn about the intrinsic relationship between cannabis and social justice.

Primary Learning Objectives

Learners will be introduced to cannabis history, contemporary social justice movements, their histories, and how both items intersect. Some topics include:

  • Racism as an intrinsic motivator in cannabis prohibition.
  • How cannabis reform necessitates criminal justice reform.
  • How cannabis industry equity means rebuilding the communities harmed by the war on drugs.
  • How the cannabis industry has a chance to set the record straight when it comes to workplace diversity and equality.
  • The various methods by which states have created and implemented their social equity programs when it comes to cannabis business licenses and more.

Images from the Course



Cannabis Types: Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis
Chemical Components: Cannabinoids.
Where is the Cannabis Industry: a legalization map
Myth vs. Fact
Chart on the increase in incarcerated people in the U.S., 1920-2014
“The Proper Treatment for Mary” – Pacific Drug Review – Nov. 1937, a propganda cartoon

Syllabus

  • Introduction: Cannabis Basics
  • The History of Cannabis Criminalization in the U.S.
  • Race and Cannabis
  • Cannabis and Criminal Justice Reform
  • Cannabis and Economic Opportunity 
  • Cannabis, Gender, and the Environment
  • Cannabis and Public Policy – Looking Ahead
  • Cannabis Social Justice Policies Across States

Course Creators

Rob Mejias Photo

Rob Mejia, Professor, Stockton University, Cannabis Studies

Rob Mejia is a Professor at Stockton University where he teaches the Introduction to Medical Cannabis, Preparation for Cannabis Internship and Social Justice and Cannabis classes. As one of the leads for the hemp and cannabis internship program, he has helped place dozens of students in valuable internships and jobs. He is often called upon to speak about cannabis at events and to diverse audiences.

Learn more

Test your Social Justice and Cannabis knowledge

How high do you score?

FAQ

How long does the course take to complete?

About 4-6 hours, depending on the level of expertise you’re starting out with

Is it all online?

Yes and each module is followed by a quiz to deepen your learning

Can I take it in my own time?

Yes. And you can repeat modules as often as you like

Do I need prior knowledge of cannabis?

No, but you’ll certainly be equipped to answer most customers questions about it once you complete the course

Does it come with a certificate of completion?

Yes! You can print it and use it professionally. Employers will respect your dedication and motivation to learn

How long can I keep the materials?

Forever! They live on our website and are updated regularly

What if I want an in-person private follow up session. Do you offer them?

Oh yes. Once you complete this course you are eligible for online coaching, privately or in groups.
Email us at hello@medicalcannabismentor.com to learn more.