Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled an “Opportunity Agenda for Black Men” on Monday, an initiative aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by black men in the US. The proposal includes several policy measures, but one aspect has generated significant controversy: a push to legalize recreational marijuana nationwide. Harris argues that this move would enable black men to access new economic opportunities and wealth in the emerging cannabis industry.
However, this idea has been met with skepticism, particularly in light of the growing body of research highlighting the potential risks associated with marijuana use. Studies have consistently shown that regular marijuana use can lead to cognitive impairment, depression, suicidal thoughts, and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. A New York Times analysis of survey data revealed that nearly a third of marijuana users experience symptoms of disorder, with around 3 million users classified as addicted.
The Biden administration has acknowledged the potential risks of marijuana use, citing evidence that it can lead to altered perception, impaired motor skills, and an increased risk of psychosis and long-lasting mental disorders. Harris’s proposal has raised concerns that her policy would lead to more depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts among black men.
The method behind Harris’s approach has also been questioned, particularly in light of the challenges faced by the cannabis industry in California, where a “cannabis equity” program has been established to provide grants to black entrepreneurs. However, the program has been plagued by issues with state taxes and regulations, which have created a thriving black market for marijuana. This has left many licensed sellers struggling to compete with unlicensed dealers who skirt regulations and avoid paying sales taxes.
The timing of Harris’s proposal is also seen as insensitive, given the historical context of marijuana use and the ongoing struggles faced by black men in the US. The fact that Harris’s first thought when trying to reach out to black voters was to help them sell a potentially hazardous substance has raised eyebrows. This move has led some to question whether Harris truly understands the needs and concerns of black men, or if she is simply trying to co-opt their support. The controversy surrounding Harris’s proposal has sparked debate about the true intentions behind her “Opportunity Agenda” and whether it is genuinely designed to address the challenges faced by black men, or if it is simply a tactical move to win votes.
