The War on Drugs and Its Repercussions: A New Era for Cannabis Justice

I have been a cannabis advocate since before I began my journey in the cannabis industry, and I can still tie every hat I wear (and have ever worn) in the industry back to advocacy. It is essential that cannabis industry professionals and cannabis consumers are aware of the dark history of the war on drugs and the role that the cannabis has played in it.

This is a topic that I have published about before, both regarding the racist criminalization of cannabis and how it pertains to profiling and incarceration of minorities. It is crucial to understand how this pertains to social equity in the cannabis sector.

Derek Ross is the CEO of Nova Farms, the Northeast’s largest, privately owned, vertically integrated cannabis operator. He agrees that we should prioritize those affected by cannabis prohibition and build a more inclusive and equitable industry, and has shared his thoughts in this article.

Initiated in the early 1970s, the War on Drugs aimed to curb illegal drug use and distribution in the United States. However, its impact has been far-reaching and deeply problematic, particularly for those caught using cannabis. The War on Drugs was not an isolated policy initiative but the culmination of decades of evolving drug regulation, cultural shifts, and political strategies. From the early narcotics laws and Prohibition to the cultural revolutions of the 1960s and the strategic decisions of the Nixon administration, the groundwork for the War on Drugs was laid long before its official declaration. Understanding this background is essential to comprehending the far-reaching impacts of this policy and the ongoing efforts to address its consequences. 

Today, it is important for cannabis industry leaders to reflect on the past and look forward to a future where we can correct these historical injustices and build a fairer, more inclusive enterprise.

Background Leading Up to the War on Drugs in the United States

The declaration of the War on Drugs by President Richard Nixon in 1971 marked a significant escalation in the United States’ approach to drug control, but it was not a sudden shift. The roots of this campaign stretch back through a complex history of societal attitudes, political maneuvers, and legislative actions that began in the early 20th century.

Early Drug Regulation and Prohibition

In the early 1900s, rising concerns over the use of opium and its derivatives led to the passage of the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act in 1914. This act aimed to control the production, distribution, and consumption of opiates and coca products, setting a precedent for federal regulation and criminalization of certain substances. The social climate of the time, influenced by the temperance movement, also saw the introduction of Prohibition in 1920, banning alcohol and highlighting the government’s increasing role in controlling substances it deemed harmful.

The Federal Bureau of Narcotics and Early Drug Policy

The creation of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics (FBN) in 1930 marked a significant step in the institutionalization of drug enforcement in the United States. Under the leadership of Harry Anslinger, the FBN waged a campaign against marijuana, portraying it as a dangerous drug that posed a significant threat to society. This era saw the beginning of aggressive drug propaganda commonly referred to as “reefer madness”, with media campaigns aimed at demonizing drug users and associating drug use with crime and moral decay. 

Post-War Cultural Shifts and Rising Drug Use

The post-World War II era brought significant cultural changes, including an increase in recreational drug use. The 1960s, in particular, were characterized by the widespread use of marijuana, LSD, and other hallucinogens, especially among the youth and countercultural movements. This period of experimentation and the associated social upheaval led to growing public and governmental concern over drug use, setting the stage for more stringent drug control measures.

Political and Racial Dynamics

The War on Drugs was also influenced by the political climate and racial dynamics of the time. The Civil Rights Movement and the social changes it brought about created a backdrop of tension and resistance. President Nixon’s administration used the War on Drugs as a political tool in Nixon’s infamous Southern Strategy to appeal to voters concerned about rising crime rates and social unrest. This campaign also had racial undertones, as drug policies were often used to target Black and Latino communities disproportionately, exacerbating social inequalities and leading to widespread incarceration.

Ronald Reagan’s Escalation in the War on Drugs

When Ronald Reagan took office as the 40th President of the United States in 1981, he inherited a nation already engaged in the War on Drugs. However, it was under Reagan’s administration that the War on Drugs escalated to unprecedented levels, profoundly shaping American drug policy and law enforcement for decades to come.

Driven by a commitment to restore “law and order” and combat what was perceived as a growing drug crisis, Reagan’s administration implemented a series of aggressive measures aimed at reducing drug use and trafficking. Central to this effort was the belief that stricter enforcement and harsher penalties would serve as effective deterrents.

Legislative Actions and Policies

One of the most notable legislative actions during Reagan’s tenure was the passage of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984, which significantly expanded federal drug penalties. This was followed by the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986, which introduced mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses and established the infamous disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentencing. These laws led to a dramatic increase in incarceration rates for drug offenses, disproportionately affecting minority communities.

The Role of the Media and Public Perception

The Reagan administration also leveraged the media to shape public perception of the drug issue. First Lady Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” campaign became a prominent feature of the era, emphasizing drug prevention and education. The administration’s media strategy portrayed drug use as a dire threat to American society, further justifying the stringent measures being implemented.

Impact on Law Enforcement

Reagan’s policies significantly increased federal funding for law enforcement agencies tasked with combating drug trafficking and use. This period saw the expansion of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the initiation of major interdiction efforts aimed at reducing the supply of drugs entering the United States. The militarization of domestic law enforcement and the establishment of drug task forces reflected the administration’s hardline stance.

Consequences and Legacy

The aggressive approach championed by Reagan had far-reaching consequences. While it aimed to curb drug use and trafficking, it also contributed to mass incarceration, particularly of Black and Latino populations. The mandatory minimum sentencing laws and the criminalization of low-level drug offenses led to overcrowded prisons and significant social and economic costs.

Ronald Reagan’s presidency marked a pivotal period in the history of the War on Drugs, characterized by an escalation of efforts to combat drug use through stringent law enforcement and punitive measures. Understanding Reagan’s role is crucial to comprehending the broader narrative of American drug policy and its enduring impacts on society. As we reflect on this history, it becomes clear that the lessons of the past must inform the pursuit of more just and effective drug policies in the future.

The Impact of the War on Drugs

The War on Drugs disproportionately targeted marginalized communities, leading to mass incarcerations, fractured families, and enduring social stigmas. Those arrested for cannabis possession often faced severe legal penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, loss of employment, and diminished future opportunities. The repercussions extended beyond the individuals directly involved, affecting their families and communities for generations. Although organizations and even some social service organizations have turned toward proven harm reduction, cannabis is still harshly penalized in many parts of the country thanks to policies and political climates from over 5 decades ago. 

A New Chapter: Legalization and Social Equity

As cannabis legalization continues across the United States, there is a growing recognition of the need to address these historical wrongs. Many states have implemented social equity programs designed to prioritize those who were most affected by the War on Drugs. These initiatives aim to provide reparative justice by offering licensing and job opportunities to individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition.

Prioritizing Affected Individuals in Licensing

Cannabis leaders should be committed to supporting these social equity initiatives, and understand that true progress involves not only changing laws but also actively creating pathways for those harmed by past policies. We should prioritize granting licenses to individuals with prior cannabis convictions, ensuring they have a fair chance to enter and thrive in the legal cannabis market. Beyond granting licenses to individuals with prior cannabis convictions, we must equip them with the tools for success, such as access to business and financial advisors. By providing comprehensive support, including mentorship and professional guidance, we can ensure these individuals have a fair chance to enter and thrive in the legal cannabis market.

These efforts are not just about rectifying past wrongs; they are also about enriching the industry with diverse perspectives and experiences. Individuals who have faced the harsh consequences of cannabis prohibition bring unique insights and resilience, contributing to a more robust and inclusive cannabis community.

Creating Job Opportunities

Beyond licensing, cannabis leaders should be dedicated to creating job opportunities for those affected by the War on Drugs by actively seeking to employ individuals with prior cannabis-related convictions, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives and careers. Workforce development programs should include training, mentorship, and support to help these individuals succeed.

By investing in these communities, we are creating a more equitable industry while simultaneously promoting economic growth. The cannabis sector has the potential to be a powerful driver of social change, providing opportunities for those who have been historically marginalized.

A Call to Action

As we move forward, it is crucial for other cannabis companies to join in the commitment to social equity. The War on Drugs has left a lasting scar on our society, and it is our collective responsibility to heal those wounds. Prioritization of affected individuals in licensing and job opportunities can build a cannabis industry that is not only profitable, just, and compassionate.

As cannabis leaders, we should be proud to be part of this transformative journey. We should envision a future where the cannabis community is a beacon of hope and opportunity for all, especially those who have been unfairly punished in the past. The War on Drugs may have left a legacy of pain and injustice, but it also presents an opportunity for redemption and progress. By prioritizing those affected by cannabis prohibition, we can build a more inclusive and equitable industry. As the CEO of Nova Farms, I am committed to leading this charge and encouraging others to do the same. Let us turn the page on the past and write a new chapter of hope, opportunity, and justice in the cannabis community. If history is any indication, it says that we will never, ever incarcerate ourselves out of an addiction crisis.

I agree wholehearted with Derek and appreciate others in the cannabis industry who feel the same!

No more drug war.