For the Culture By The Culture
The New York Times has finally admitted that legal cannabis is eating into alcohol consumption across the country, after years of fear mongering that painted the plant as a public threat. Anyone inside weed culture saw this shift long before the paper caught on. As people replace booze with a calmer, less punishing option, the old narrative collapses and the Times scrambles to catch up
Michigan’s new 24% wholesale cannabis tax has ignited outrage across the state. Pitched as a fix for crumbling roads, the law instead cripples small growers and pushes the market back underground. With lawsuits already filed and jobs on the line, the move exposes how easily lawmakers can rewrite voter-approved legalization into a state-sponsored shakedown for profit.
Legal cannabis has generated nearly $25 billion in tax revenue, with $4.4 billion collected in 2024 alone. States benefit significantly, funding various community programs. However, equity issues remain, as many who contributed to legalization are still marginalized. The promise of justice is overshadowed by bureaucracy and economic barriers for legacy growers.
Cinco de Mayo is misconceived in the U.S. as a celebration for partying, but it commemorates the Battle of Puebla, symbolizing Mexican resilience. The cannabis industry mirrors this appropriation, marketing products without acknowledging the culture's significance. To honor this day, cannabis brands should promote education and support for Latino communities instead of perpetuating stereotypes.
Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines, was arrested and extradited to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity for his brutal war on drugs, which resulted in thousands of deaths. His trial marks a significant moment for global accountability, as many countries evaluate their own drug policies in light of his actions.
STIIIZY, a major cannabis company in California, suffered a massive data breach affecting over 422,000 customers, including sensitive personal information. Hackers linked to the Everest Ransomware group exploited vulnerabilities through a compromised vendor. The incident highlights significant cybersecurity gaps in the industry, prompting calls for greater protective measures and increasing concerns about identity theft and privacy violations.
