In this edition of our Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team originally aired on Wednesday, May 27th, Mike and Michelle chatted with other industry association lobbyists from the Marijuana Policy Project, the Drug Policy Alliance, and NORML for a discussion on the importance of advocacy.

For decades, cannabis activism, advocacy, and lobbying have been intertwined. Sometimes, it’s portrayed that “advocacy” groups and “industry” associations are at odds, however, you’ll be surprised to learn that while we may have differing opinions or strategies occasionally, we all still work incredibly closely together and consider one another friends. We hope you can join us for a discussion about how cannabis advocacy has changed over the years, an inside look at what’s next in state and federal policy, and learn more about why cannabis legalization can’t (and won’t) pass without addressing the harms of the war on drugs.

Panelists:
Michael Correia
Director of Government Relations
National Cannabis Industry Association

Michelle Rutter Friberg
Deputy Director of Government Relations
National Cannabis Industry Association

Chris Lindsey
Director of Government Relations
Marijuana Policy Project

Maritza Perez
Director of National Affairs
Drug Policy Alliance

Justin Strekal
Political Director
NORML