For decades, Black leaders have played a crucial role in shaping the cannabis industry, influencing culture, policy, and legalization efforts. From music to activism, these figures have left a lasting impact. In this Black History Month 2025 and as a cannabis dispensary in DC, it’s important to remember their impact on American society. These personalities from the entertainment industry or civil society have used their skills or their voice to promote a better image of the plant and its community.
Here are some of the most influential Black leaders in cannabis history.
1. Wanda James: A Pioneer in the Cannabis Industry
Wanda James made history as the first Black woman to own a dispensary in the United States. A former Navy officer turned entrepreneur, she founded Simply Pure, a cannabis company dedicated to advocacy and equity. Probably the best Cannabis dispensary in Denver, by the way.
James also fights for racial justice in the cannabis industry. She has alerted on the disproportionate arrests of Black Americans for marijuana-related offenses.
2. Snoop Dogg: The mainstream Cannabis Culture Icon
Snoop Dogg is one of the most recognizable names in cannabis culture. He has used his platform to influence public perception and promote cannabis entrepreneurship. As a lifelong activist, he launched his own cannabis brand, Leafs by Snoop, and frequently speaks on legalization. Although now considered mainstream by some purists, Snoop nonetheless remains ultra-influential on the American cannabis scene. His music and public persona have helped normalize cannabis use in pop culture.
3. Peter Tosh: The Reggae Legend and Cannabis Activist
Not the most famous Jamaican on this list… But musician Peter Tosh was one of the earliest global voices asking for cannabis legalization. His song “Legalize It” became an anthem for the movement in the 70s. Tosh saw cannabis not just as a recreational substance but as a spiritual and medicinal plant.
He played a major role in spreading the message of cannabis legalization worldwide. Alongside another Jamaican icon…
4. Bob Marley: The Symbol of Cannabis and Rastafarianism
Bob Marley, one of the most famous musicians of all time, was a devoted fighter for cannabis. He viewed it as a sacred herb within the Rastafarian culture. His influence extended beyond music, helping to destigmatize marijuana use globally.
His legacy continues through Marley Natural, a cannabis brand supporting social justice initiatives.
5. Al Harrington: From NBA Star to Cannabis Entrepreneur
Former NBA player Al Harrington transitioned from professional basketball to cannabis entrepreneurship. After 17 years in the NBA, he founded Viola, a company focused on minority representation in the cannabis industry. Harrington aims to create generational wealth for Black communities through cannabis business opportunities.
6. Bernard Noble: A Symbol of Cannabis Justice Reform
Bernard Noble became a national symbol of the fight against harsh cannabis laws after being sentenced to 13 years of hard labor for possessing two joints in Louisiana. His case gained national attention, leading to criminal justice reforms. Today, Noble is an activist and co-founder of the cannabis brand Bernard’s.
7. Bessie Smith: The Early Cannabis Cultural Influence
Blues legend Bessie Smith was one of the earliest Black artists to reference cannabis in music. In the 1920s, she sang about the plant in her lyrics, helping to associate jazz culture with marijuana use. She may not be well known by today’s youths, but she undeniably influenced later generations of artists and activists.
These Black leaders have played a pivotal role in shaping cannabis history, whether through advocacy, business, music, or policy reform. Their contributions continue to influence the modern cannabis movement, promoting equity, legalization, and cultural acceptance.
🔥 Who else do you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments!
