Cannabis Cultural Association (CCA)
Like all great things, the Cannabis Cultural Association sprouted from a seed of an idea. Its founders recognized a clear need for increased diversity and inclusivity within the cannabis industry. They believed that cultural and social barriers had created an unjust system, pushing many potential entrepreneurs and enthusiasts to the sidelines. And so, the CCA was born to level the playing field.
Vision of the Cannabis Cultural Association
The CCA ain’t no one-trick pony. It’s a diverse organization with a multifaceted vision, focusing on three core areas:
- Education: Empowering individuals through knowledge about cannabis, its uses, and the industry.
- Advocacy: Fighting for legal and social reforms to ensure equal opportunities in the cannabis industry.
- Community: Building a strong, diverse community of cannabis enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
Inclusivity: a core principle of the CCA
The CCA is a trailblazer in fostering inclusivity within the cannabis industry. They have always been of the opinion that the cannabis space should be as diverse as the strains of the plant itself. They’ve made it their mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can partake in the booming cannabis industry. The Cannabis Cultural Association has been busy as a bee, challenging and shattering stereotypes around cannabis. They’re committed to dispelling myths and misconceptions, leading the charge towards a more understanding and accepting society.
Advocating for legal reforms
Let’s not beat around the bush; the legal landscape of cannabis in the U.S. is a bit of a minefield. With laws varying from state to state, it can be as clear as mud. The CCA plays a significant role in advocating for a more streamlined and equitable legal framework for cannabis use and industry participation. The CCA isn’t just blowing smoke when it comes to social justice. They’re deeply involved in advocating for those negatively affected by the War on Drugs. They believe that cannabis legalization could play a major role in addressing these historical injustices.
Empowering through education
Knowledge is power, and the CCA firmly believes in this. They offer various educational initiatives, workshops, and resources aimed at enlightening individuals about the benefits and potential of cannabis. Through education, the Cannabis Cultural Association is aiming to bridge the gap between the public perception and the reality of cannabis. They’re working tirelessly to debunk myths, correct misinformation, and provide a balanced view of cannabis and its industry.
The Cannabis Cultural Association is 501(c)3 nonprofit based in NY which helps marginalized and underrepresented communities engage in the legal cannabis industry, emphasizing criminal justice reform, access to medical cannabis, and adult use legalization.
Building a vibrant community
The CCA is more than just an organization; it’s a community. It’s a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life, united by a common interest in cannabis. The CCA fosters this community spirit through various events, initiatives, and platforms, promoting a sense of belonging and camaraderie. The Cannabis Cultural Association has its sights set on greener pastures. Its future plans involve continuing its advocacy work, expanding its educational initiatives, and further building its community. It aims to create a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant cannabis industry. The CCA isn’t just a part of the cannabis industry; it’s leading the charge. It’s at the forefront of advocating for diversity, inclusion, and social justice within the cannabis space. It’s a shining beacon, illuminating the way for others to follow. In a nutshell, the Cannabis Cultural Association is a game-changer. It’s not only transforming the cannabis industry but also impacting society at large. By promoting diversity, advocating for social justice, and spreading knowledge about cannabis, the CCA is truly breaking the “grass” ceiling. So, whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or a curious observer, keep an eye on the CCA. It’s sure to continue making waves in the world of cannabis.
Co-founder and executive director Nelson Guerrero
Nelson Guerrero is the Executive Director of the Cannabis Cultural Association. He is a bilingual Ecuadorian-American, who is an alumnus of City University of New York, Lehman College. After successfully educating his traditional, Latin family about the benefits of cannabis, Nelson co-founded the Cannabis Cultural Association in 2016. Through the CCA Nelson works to end the stigma around cannabis use by educating all people, both in English and in Spanish, about the benefits that cannabis offers. The CCA achieved § 501(c)(3) non-profit status in February 2017 and, among other things, emphasizes criminal justice reform, promotes access to medical cannabis, and advocates legalization for adult-use of cannabis. He has coordinated and organized several events for cannabis education, entrepreneurship, and advocacy/activism. Nelson and the CCA are currently plaintiffs suing Attorney General Jeff Sessions and The Drug Enforcement Agency. alongside Alexis Bortell, Marvin Washington, Jose Belen and Jagger Cote, for the removal of cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act.
Co-founder and deputy director Jake Plowden
Jake Plowden is the deputy director and a co-founder of The Cannabis Cultural Association, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides resources for disenfranchised communities to get into legal cannabis and hemp. Growing up in Brooklyn and Harlem, he has witnessed firsthand the destructive components of the Drug War and its socioeconomic effects on African American/Latinx communities. The CCA educates in both English and Spanish to ensure that communities are not lost in translation or left behind in the green rush. He co-founded the CCA alongside Nelson Guerrero back in 2016 in response to the lack of diversity and inclusion in the growing cannabis industry, especially for millennials of color. He produces and organizes events surrounding cannabis education, entrepreneurship, policy, advocacy/activism, and the the War On Drugs’ effects on communities of color. He uses photography and writing to further understanding of the intercultural experiences within drug policy. He also the executive producer and co-host of the weekly podcast “In The Know 420” with criminal attorney and cannabis advocate Joseph Bondy.
Jake and the CCA are suing Attorney General Jeff Sessions and The Drug Enforcement Agency. alongside Alexis Bortell, Jose Belen, Jagger Cotte, and Marvin Washington for the removal of cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act.
CannAbuelo: The Jorge Gavilanes Story
In an effort to educate the Latinx community, the Cannabis Cultural Association presents the trailer for the short film titled: CannAbuelo: The Jorge Gavilanes Story. In his native language of Spanish (with English subtitles), Jorge Gavilanes shares his experience as a New York State medical marijuana patient in the short film which is slated for a May release. Jorge, who was first diagnosed with cancer nearly 20 years ago, describes the life-changing impact cannabis oil has made on his health and overall wellbeing. Jorge’s story shows the need to educate our community about cannabis as medicine and to find new ways to talk about cannabis with our families.
In 2001, doctors diagnosed Jorge Gavilanes with prostate cancer. Jorge immediately underwent surgery to remove his prostate and began chemotherapy treatments. Several months later Jorge’s cancer went into remission. After 14 years of check-ups and clear body scans, Jorge’s cancer came back, except that this time, it spread to his chest. Specialists in both Ecuador and the United States recommended new rounds of chemotherapy but were not hopeful as to how effective chemo wouldbe.
They gave Jorge six months to a year to live. Jorge, remembering chemotherapy’s draining effects from his first fight with cancer, declined treatment. He preferred to enjoy his remaining time with his wife and family. A year later in February 2016, Jorge had outlived his doctor’s predictions but had also lost a significant amount of weight and most of his daily energy. Jorge’s grandson Nelson brought up the idea of cannabis tinctures as a non-invasive way to improve Jorge’s quality of life. Jorge was willing to try the idea and began to take three drops of THC and CBD tincture after every meal. Immediately, Jorge felt his appetite return and he began to sleep through the night, something he had not been able to do consistently since before his initial surgery in 2001. The tinctures allowed Jorge to treat his symptoms without spending his time in the hospital, and they quickly became an important part of his daily regime. At 80 years old, Jorge continues to fight his Stage 4 cancer by micro-dosing cannabis tinctures every day. For the first time, Jorge shares his story as a medical marijuana patient.
FAQs About the Cannabis Cultural Association
1. What is the Cannabis Cultural Association?
The Cannabis Cultural Association (CCA) is a non-profit organization in the U.S. that advocates for diversity and inclusivity in the cannabis industry.
2. What does the Cannabis Cultural Association do?
The CCA focuses on education, advocacy, and community-building. It aims to educate individuals about cannabis, advocate for legal and social reforms, and build a diverse community of cannabis enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
3. How does the Cannabis Cultural Association promote inclusivity?
The CCA promotes inclusivity by advocating for equal opportunities in the cannabis industry, regardless of an individual’s background or circumstances. It also works to shatter stereotypes and misconceptions about cannabis.
4. Why is the Cannabis Cultural Association important?
The CCA is important because it fights for a more equitable and inclusive cannabis industry. It works to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the growth of the industry.
5. What is the future of the Cannabis Cultural Association?
The future of the CCA involves continuing its advocacy work, expanding its educational initiatives, and further building its community. It aims to create a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant cannabis industry.
6. How can I support the Cannabis Cultural Association?
You can support the CCA by participating in their events, contributing to their initiatives, and spreading awareness about their mission and work.
