Our commitment to social justice reform within the cannabis industry
Across the United States, the communities most impacted by cannabis criminalization have predominantly been communities of color.
We are committed to using our influence and resources to help drive criminal justice reform related to cannabis prohibition and to make a positive difference for those individuals and communities who have been adversely affected by unjust cannabis laws. Our Hawthorne Social Justice Fund provides grants to organizations addressing the problems caused by the disproportionate number of cannabis-related arrests and incarcerations involving persons of color. It also supports job creation, entrepreneurship and increased investment opportunities in minority communities.
Last Prisoner Project helped advocate for Michael Thompson's release from prison in Michigan after 25 years for 3 lbs. of cannabis.
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
Since its establishment in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) has made significant progress in its efforts to develop leaders, inform public policy and educate the public. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation launched the John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship in 2020 in response to the protests of police killings of unarmed Black Americans and the historically unlevel playing field for minorities. It’s mission is to combat systemic injustice and advance racial equity, human rights, education, and community and economic development opportunities for the Black community.
“We’re delighted to partner with the Hawthorne Social Justice Fund in support of the John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship as we cultivate and equip early-career policy professionals and create a pipeline of young Black leaders.”
– Paul Dumars, Co-interim President and CEO, CFO and COO, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
Minorities for Medical Marijuana
Minorities for Medical Marijuana provides advocacy, outreach, research, and training as it relates to the business, social reform, public policy, and health and wellness in the cannabis industry. Its Project Clean Slate program offers expungement clinics and wraparound services nationwide for those affected by past marijuana possession charges, while Project Safe Access NV assists members of the Latino community in accessing medical marijuana.
“The impact of social injustices go beyond the individual and impact entire families and communities. Therefore, it will take organizations like ours coming together to restore the community,” says Roz McCarthy, Founder, Minorities for Medical Marijuana. “This partnership helps us expand the work of Project Clean Slate.”
Learn more about Minorities for Medical MarijuanaMarijuana Policy Project Foundation
Marijuana Policy Project Foundation is a racial justice and social equity project seeking to elevate cannabis reform as a civil rights issue at the national level and increase diverse representation within the legal cannabis industry.
“MPP is proud to be a partner of the Hawthorne Social Justice Fund [provided through The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation]. As legalization continues to gain traction across the country, MPP believes it is crucial to advocate for policies that promote inclusion, equity, and justice both in legislation and in the cannabis industry. Hawthorne's commitment to advancing reforms needed to create a more just and equitable industry is commendable and we look forward to the work that will be accomplished through this partnership."
- Steven Hawkins, Executive Director, Marijuana Policy Project
Hawthorne Social Justice Fund
Learn more about The Hawthorne Social Justice Fund within The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation.
