In recent years, the cannabis industry has experienced explosive growth, fueled by changing laws, public perceptions, and a growing demand for medicinal and recreational cannabis products. However, behind the rapid expansion lies a critical issue that demands our attention: social justice in the cannabis industry. At Sun+Earth Certified, we believe that the future of cannabis must prioritize fairness, equity, and sustainability for all—especially for those who have been disproportionately impacted by systemic inequities.
A History of Inequity and the Path Forward
The criminalization of cannabis has left a devastating legacy, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, particularly Black and Brown populations. Despite legalization in many states, these communities continue to face barriers to entry in the legal cannabis market. The reality is stark: while cannabis has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, much of the wealth and opportunity has been concentrated in the hands of a privileged few.
At the same time, access to high-quality, clean cannabis products remains a challenge for underserved communities. Poorly produced, chemically treated cannabis is often the most affordable option, leaving marginalized groups vulnerable to products that can negatively impact their health. These inequities make it clear that the cannabis industry has a long way to go in addressing social justice and creating an inclusive, equitable future.
The Role of Sun+Earth Certified in Driving Change
At Sun+Earth Certified, we are committed to redefining what justice and sustainability look like in the cannabis industry. Our certification program goes beyond organic farming practices—we prioritize regenerative agriculture, fair labor practices, and support for small-scale farmers. By choosing Sun+Earth Certified products, consumers are supporting ethical practices that uplift farming communities while ensuring access to clean, sustainably grown cannabis.
We also recognize the need to address systemic barriers that prevent marginalized communities from accessing high-quality cannabis. By working with dispensaries like Divine Toke, the first online dispensary in the U.S. to exclusively offer regenerative biodynamic cannabis, we are helping to make sustainable, clean products more accessible to everyone—especially those who are often left behind in this industry.
Highlighting Divine Toke: A Model for Social Justice
Divine Toke, a Sun+Earth Certified dispensary, exemplifies the values of equity, integrity, and sustainability. Their mission is clear: to provide clean, wholesome cannabis products grown with care for the Earth, while addressing the inequities that persist in the industry.
As co-founder Katie Benisek explains, “For too long, marginalized communities have been deeply affected by poorly produced products. And because of price points, they’re often unable to access products that could genuinely support their health and well-being. This felt like an urgent issue, particularly in these difficult times when marginalized people are being targeted in so many ways.”
By operating as an online dispensary, Divine Toke eliminates the high overhead costs of a brick-and-mortar store, allowing them to keep prices affordable while reaching wider audiences. Their commitment to Sun+Earth Certified standards ensures that every product is grown sustainably, free from harmful additives, and sourced with integrity.
The team at Divine Toke is setting a powerful example of how cannabis businesses can prioritize social justice, not just profit. By making quality cannabis accessible to those who need it most, they are proving that the industry can be a force for positive change.
Why Social Justice Matters in Cannabis
The cannabis industry has a unique opportunity to lead the way in creating a more just and equitable economy. Supporting social justice in cannabis means:
- Creating equitable opportunities for communities disproportionately impacted by prohibition.
- Advocating for expungement and reinvestment in communities harmed by the War on Drugs.
- Ensuring access to clean, safe, and affordable products for underserved populations.
- Prioritizing small-scale, sustainable farmers who often struggle to compete with large corporate operations.
How You Can Support Social Justice in Cannabis
As consumers, donors, and advocates, we all have a role to play in shaping the future of the cannabis industry. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
- Choose Certified Products: Look for cannabis products that are Sun+Earth Certified or come from companies that prioritize sustainability, fair labor, and equity.
- Support Small Farmers: Many small, organic cannabis farmers are struggling to compete in a market dominated by large corporations. Supporting their products helps keep their businesses alive.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Push for policies that expunge cannabis-related convictions and create equitable opportunities for marginalized communities to participate in the legal market.
- Educate Others: Share information about the importance of social justice in cannabis and encourage your network to support ethical, sustainable businesses.
Final Thoughts
The path to a more equitable cannabis industry is not without challenges, but it is one worth pursuing. Together, we can build a future where cannabis serves as a force for healing—not just for individuals, but for communities and the planet as a whole.
At Sun+Earth Certified, we are proud to work alongside businesses like Divine Toke to drive meaningful change in the industry. By prioritizing social justice, sustainability, and fairness, we can ensure that the benefits of cannabis are shared by all.
To learn more about how we’re supporting equity and sustainability in the cannabis industry, visit www.sunandearth.org.
Image - Vin DeChamps of 54 Green Acres at Breeze Botanicals in Gold Hill, Oregon.
