Brendan Robinson - Why Social Equity is Important in the Cannabis Industry

Today on Grow Sessions, Brendan Robinson, Co-Founder of 420NJEvents and CEO, Minority Cannabis Academy joins Tony Pavlakis for an informative discussion on social equity in the cannabis industry in an episode entitled, “Why Social Equity is Important in the Cannabis Industry.”It is no secret that cannabis had an adverse impact on people of color during its prohibition period. To counter this injustice, many states have implemented social equity programs to coincide with the legalization of cannabis in an attempt to ensure that  those with marijuana offenses prior to legalization be afforded an opportunity to participate in the growing industry.In this episode of Grow Sessions, we will discuss the importance of social equity programs to the cannabis community. Some of the important topics we discuss will include: understanding what is needed to invest in a cannabis business, why funding is so important, creating pathways to careers in the industry for minorities, education for those interested in pursuing a career in the industry, why social equity needs to be addressed head on to have a national plan in place if we go federal, and much, much more.You won’t want to miss this important conversation on erasing the stigma of cannabis. The Cannabis Community is a great community of people, but we’re stronger together!About Brendan RobinsonHailing from the New Jersey tri- state area, Brendon attended both The College of New Jersey and Rowan University to study Accounting & Finance. Following his studies, accompanied by steady appearances on the Dean's List, Brendon embarked upon an illustrious career in banking.  Following his long-standing career in finance, Brendon boldly stepped away from his position to answer the calling of his passions- social equity, cannabis reform, and the progression of people of color. Brendon has successfully founded multiple ventures focused on erasing the stigmas of cannabis and instead using all of the amazing benefits of cannabis to heal people and communities. Brendon proudly serves on the board of The Mission Green Project alongside the Founder, Weldon Angelos. Brendon has also gone so far as to partner with REEForm Cannabis alongside Angelos to bring even more attention to the need for decriminalization of marijuana. Brendon and his work in the cannabis industry has been featured by multiple national publications such as High Times, NJ.com, Benzinga, and Northleaf East Magazine. Most recently, Brendon and his business partner Stanley Okoro were named as esteemed members of the "22 to Watch in 2022" by NJ Cannabis Insider.As an active and vocal member of the cannabis community, Brendon has also built amazing relationships with brand partners and sponsors who include TerrAscend (The Apothecarium), Columbia Care (Cannabist), Green Thumb Industries, Curaleaf, Hemper, Acreage, Earth & Ivy and Tetragram.To learn more about Brendan Robinson, 420 Events and/or MCA  please visit him at: brobinson@420njevents.comThanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.