Next week, the third annual National Indigenous Cannabis Policy Summit will take place in Washington, D.C., bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders from Indigenous communities, the cannabis industry, healthcare, and government. Scheduled for November 13-15, 2024, the summit is positioned as a pivotal event for shaping the future of cannabis policy, especially in relation to its impact on Indigenous communities.
This year’s summit comes on the heels of the recent U.S. elections, marking a key moment for cannabis advocates to reflect on potential policy changes under the new federal administration. The event will be hosted by the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA), whose founder, Rob Pero, emphasized the summit’s importance for creating sustainable opportunities for Indigenous communities within the growing cannabis industry.
Keynote Speakers and Presentations
The summit will feature a range of expert speakers and panel discussions focused on the intersection of cannabis policy, legalities, health, and sustainability. Notable presentations include:
- Mary Celeste, former Denver County Court Judge, will deliver a keynote address on “The Legalities, Science, and Testing of Hemp Derivatives Like CBD and Delta-8.” Her session will provide an in-depth look at the regulatory landscape surrounding hemp-derived products such as CBD and Delta-8, which have seen growing consumer demand.
- Dr. Sherman Hom will present on the “Known Risks of Cannabis Use and Ability to Test for These Threats,” focusing on health concerns associated with cannabis cultivation and the potential risks in its use.
- Dr. Joseph Rosado of International Medical Consultants will discuss the connection between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) in his talk titled “Unraveling the Connection.” This session will explore how disruptions in the body’s endocannabinoid system could worsen PTSD symptoms.
- A special panel led by Danny Desjarlais from the Lower Sioux Indian Community will explore the potential of hempcrete as a sustainable building material for Indigenous communities. This session, titled “What to Know When You’re Ready to Build,” will provide insights into using hemp in construction and advancing sustainable building practices.
Broader Discussions on Sustainability and Policy
While the summit will continue to focus on increasing access to cannabis as a form of plant medicine, it will also address broader issues like environmental sustainability and economic sovereignty for Indigenous communities. The summit will highlight how these communities can diversify and leverage their involvement in the cannabis industry, especially as it grows and becomes federally legalized.
Rob Pero emphasized that the summit will not only focus on increasing plant medicine access but will also discuss long-term sustainable practices that can benefit Indigenous communities and prepare them for future economic growth. Topics will include:
- The impact of federal rescheduling of cannabis
- Using data-driven approaches to influence policy
- The role of cannabis legalization in supporting economic sovereignty and growth for tribes
A Unique Advocacy Opportunity
As the largest post-election cannabis advocacy gathering in Washington, D.C., the National Indigenous Cannabis Policy Summit represents a critical platform for advancing policy discussions, advocating for the needs of Indigenous communities, and exploring new opportunities for growth within the cannabis sector. It promises to provide practical insights, foster collaboration, and lay the groundwork for a more equitable future for Indigenous people in the cannabis industry.
