Oakland’s Cannabis Social Equity Program: Reversing The War on Drugs

Nabil Aziz, Political Science, Class of 2021

Internship Office: Eleni Kounalakis, Lieutenant Governor of California

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, the marijuana market could exceed the $70 billion market for U.S wine by 2030. However, many racial minorities are often unable to reap the benefits of this emerging, yet highly exclusive industry. By analyzing the City of Oakland's Cannabis Social Equity Program and conducting interviews with applicants of the program, this op-ed emphasizes the significant policy measures taken to ensure racial equity within the cannabis industry.