Queer in Cannabis Carries the Torch

As the cannabis space evolves, remembering the difficult and enlightening lessons we’ve learned along the way is vital in encouraging a prosperous and inclusive industry going forward. Queer In Cannabis (QIC) is a growing U.S. reform group founded by gay, Latino entrepreneur Rich Magaña. QIC’s mission is to ensure the cannabis industry remembers its LGBTQIA+ roots.

In the 1970s through 1990s, LGBTQIA+ activists laid the groundwork for today's cannabis reform. Dennis Peron, known as “the father of medical cannabis," co-authored California's groundbreaking Proposition 215 while his partner Jonathan West battled AIDS.

Mary Jane "Brownie Mary" Rathbun revolutionized medical cannabis by distributing marijuana brownies to AIDS patients at San Francisco General Hospital, ultimately becoming a leading advocate for medical legalization. 

Kiyoshi Kuromiya, an aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., created the first HIV/AIDS newsletter while advocating for cannabis access, and Paul Scott secured crucial funding for HIV/AIDS services in Black and brown communities while championing cannabis rights.

These pioneers’ work during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s-90s shaped modern cannabis legislation, particularly in California, where their advocacy led to the nation's first medical marijuana laws. 

Nearly thirty years later, few organizations bridge the gap between LGBTQIA+ rights and cannabis reform as effectively as Queer In Cannabis. With Magaña’s deep roots in both the queer and cannabis communities, QIC emerged from his blend of experiences as much as the legacies of oppression and the resulting activism. 

About Queer In Cannabis

QIC interweaves education, advocacy, and community building toward accomplishing its mission. When Magaña worked in cannabis marketing, he noticed many LGBTQIA+ industry professionals were unaware of the queer community's pivotal role in cannabis legalization. It inspired Magaña to dedicate himself to helping preserve and celebrate this history. Through workshops delivered to brands and dispensaries, QIC ensures legendary queer cannabis activists are remembered and honored.

In their “Trailblazers’ series, which features accomplished LGBTQIA+ cannabis professionals, QIC elevates queer visibility in the cannabis community. QIC-organized meet-ups foster meaningful networking opportunities. Both strongly encourage forming mentor/mentee relationships.

Raising awareness about how businesses can show their support is another way QIC advocates for the marginalized. “Companies can commit to consistent shelf space and ordering from LGBTQIA+-owned brands year-round, not just during Pride month,” said Magaña. “They can also partner with organizations like QIC and The Jane Project to enrich local communities, recognizing that cannabis consumers appreciate brands that demonstrate an authentic commitment to inclusion.”

QIC partners with regional organizations like Worcester Pride and the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition. Nationally, they support The Trevor Project and Advocates for Trans Equality, both of which address critical issues like youth suicide prevention and trans rights advocacy. QIC's community events including queer walking tours and drag shows create safe spaces where, as Magaña says, "strangers become friends and drama stays at the door."

Preserving history, creating safe spaces, and supporting local and national initiatives, QIC harnesses the power of the community to help the community keep thriving. As Magaña says, “The cannabis community remains ‘the heartbeat’ of the industry, and organizations like QIC help ensure that heartbeat stays strong and inclusive.