The Rise of Black-Owned Dispensaries in Detroit
Opening Doors for Black Entrepreneurs
This weekend, Detroit witnessed another milestone in its ongoing journey towards social equity. High Profile Cannabis Shop, a Black-owned dispensary located at 20327 Groesbeck Hwy, joined the growing list of businesses participating in Detroit’s social equity program. This program has been specifically designed to ensure that Black residents have ample representation and opportunities within the legal cannabis industry. As more entrepreneurs of color enter this lucrative market, the landscape of the cannabis business in Detroit continues to evolve, fostering economic growth and empowerment for its residents.
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A City Embracing Social Equity
City officials, including Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison, celebrated the grand opening of High Profile Cannabis Shop alongside co-owner Najanava Harvey-Quinn. The city’s commitment to social equity is evident in its adult-use cannabis ordinance, which offers assistance to “Detroit legacy” applicants, those who have lived in the city for over a decade and own at least 51% of the business. The city has issued 34 adult-use cannabis retail licenses so far, with an impressive 20 of those going to social equity applicants. These businesses are vital for creating opportunities and wealth for marginalized communities. By supporting these entrepreneurs, Detroit is paving the way for a more diverse and equitable future in the cannabis industry.
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High Profile Cannabis Shop: More Than Just a Dispensary
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The store, a dispensary chain operated by Ann Arbor-based C3 Industries, is much more than just a place to buy cannabis products. It serves as a symbol of hope and progress for the city of Detroit and its residents. High Profile Cannabis Shop offers an extensive selection of flower, concentrate, vape cartridges, and edibles, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. This new location marks C3 Industries’ first dispensary in Detroit, further expanding the company’s presence in Michigan, Massachusetts, and Missouri. With this expansion, High Profile Cannabis Shop not only contributes to the local economy but also plays a significant role in promoting social equity within the cannabis industry.
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Fighting for Social Justice in Cannabis
Najanava Harvey-Quinn, a long-time advocate for policy change in the wake of the War on Drugs, has personal experience with its impact. In 2008, her sister faced arrest for possessing a small amount of cannabis. This life-altering event inspired Harvey-Quinn to fight for change and protect others from the social and economic barriers her sister encountered. Her tireless efforts have made her a champion of social justice in the cannabis industry, working to dismantle the systemic inequalities that have long plagued the sector. Harvey-Quinn’s dedication to promoting social equity is a driving force behind the success of High Profile Cannabis Shop and an inspiration to others seeking to make a difference.
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Creating Opportunities for People of Color
Harvey-Quinn’s vision is to create a pathway for long-term Black and Brown residents to impact their communities positively. As a business owner, she leads by example, showing others the possibilities of entrepreneurship in the cannabis industry. She hopes that her success will inspire future generations of people of color to pursue opportunities in this rapidly growing sector. With the support of the city’s legacy program, Harvey-Quinn has been able to overcome obstacles and make her dream a reality. Through her dedication and determination, she is helping to create a more inclusive and diverse industry, fostering a brighter future for all. Harvey-Quinn’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that a single entrepreneur can have on their community, breaking down barriers and opening doors for others to follow in their footsteps.
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Detroit: A Model City for Social Equity
With 19 of the 34 licensed businesses owned by Detroiters, including 10 Black men and seven Black women, Detroit has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting social equity in the cannabis industry. Under the city’s ordinance, half of the licenses are required to be issued to social equity applicants. This policy has been instrumental in providing opportunities for individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs. By taking these proactive steps, Detroit is positioning itself as a model for opportunity and inclusivity in the cannabis industry, setting an example for other cities to follow.
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