FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2022
CONTACT Aaron Johnson aaron@narrative-project.com 475.305.9324 Tom Long tlong@workplace.org 203.313.5507
The Alliance for Cannabis Equity release Manifesto, a resource for Black and Brown Entrepreneurs, Social Equity Applicants, and Minority Workers in the Cannabis Industry
Bridgeport, CT - The Alliance for Cannabis Equity, created to be an authoritative and trusted resource for those interested in assuring that the social equity provisions related to adult-use cannabis are fully realized, formed by Community Outreach Revitalization Program (ConnCORP) and The WorkPlace, hosted a press conference on Thursday to announce the release of its Cannabis Manifesto. "ACE is focusing on social equity and the economic opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs and minority workers in the emerging cannabis industry,” said Joseph Carbone, President and CEO, The WorkPlace. “Our publication of The Cannabis Manifesto for Social Equity is an important step in supporting social equity initiatives across the state and helping people realize what is possible." The Manifesto focuses on providing BIPOC entrepreneurs and workers a trusted document and website that can be used to answer questions about the new recreational cannabis industry in Connecticut. It provides an overview of key entry processes – covering cannabis business requirements, the lottery process, and addresses general business questions that may aid Social Equity Applicants in the creation of and future management of their businesses. "Provisions of the new cannabis law aim to insure that Black and Brown communities that have been adversely impacted by disparate marijuana law enforcement policies not be left behind; but also reap the benefits expected to accrue from this new industry," said Carlton Highsmith, Board Chair, ConnCORP. "But there is a knowledge gap that needs to be bridged. Linkages to resources need to be made. Sources of financial capital that need to be identified. There is an urgent necessity for reliable and trusted information. This Manifesto is designed to bridge the resource gap and link interested parties to reliable, trusted and authoritative information and resources." Along with the Manifesto, which was created by BJM Solutions, ACE will also provide continued support to maintain the accompanying website as the industry evolves, with continued partnership with other organizations who are also committed to the realization of the legislation’s goal of promoting economic and social justice in the cannabis industry. "The legalization of adult-use recreational cannabis in Connecticut presents a once in a lifetime opportunity for entrepreneurs. The Social Equity Council and the legislation are attempting to ensure the opportunity to prosper for marginalized groups that have been disproportionately harmed by the War on Drugs," said Fred McKinney, Ph.D., Founder BJM Solutions. "This Manifesto provides the first vital step towards that goal. We understand in order to make these opportunities a reality for Black and Brown entrepreneurs, ACE and others will need to work tirelessly, otherwise, we will not meet the objectives of equity and inclusion in the wealth generation that will occur." The Alliance was created to focus on social equity and the economic opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs and minority workers in the field of cannabis across the state of Connecticut. The emphasis on social equity will create significant economic opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs and minority workers within the state.
Joseph M. Carbone address the room during the Alliance for Cannabis Equity press conference on Thursday morning. Dr. Fred McKinney and Paul McCraven, Chief Operating Officer of ConnCORP, also spoke during the event.
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About ConnCORP ConnCORP seeks to drive economic development in the Dixwell and Newhallville sections of New Haven by investing in local commercial and residential real estate. The objective is to deliver well-planned multi-use real estate investment, which can help stabilize the local economy, provide affordable goods and services, and create local jobs. Learn more at Conncorp.org. About The WorkPlace The WorkPlace conducts comprehensive planning, and coordinates regional workforce development policy and programs to prepare people for careers while strengthening the workforce for employers. As a national leader in the field, The WorkPlace regularly shares ideas and best practices with lawmakers, foundations, think tanks and other workforce development organizations around the country.