ACHEM Launches Freedom Initiative for Cannabis Patient Rights

The Association for Cannabis Health Equity and Medicine (ACHEM) has launched the ACHEM Freedom Initiative (AFI) to support cannabis patients’ rights amid ongoing disparities in cannabis law enforcement, particularly affecting Black and Brown Americans and medical patients.

Dr. Carmen Jones, AFI director, shared her journey to becoming a patient advocate and expert witness, highlighting the lack of training for physicians in cannabis medicine. Her experience helping patients and witnessing their improved quality of life led her to focus on cannabis advocacy, culminating in the creation of the Freedom Initiative.

The initiative aims to empower patients, healthcare providers, and legal teams by providing resources, training, and support. It seeks to address challenges faced by patients, such as legal issues and stereotypes surrounding cannabis.

Dr. Jones recounted a case involving a young African-American woman who faced jail time due to a positive cannabis test. Despite her doctor’s recommendation, the judge required proof of medical need. Dr. Jones, with support from ACHEM, compiled scientific studies and a letter for the judge, ultimately securing the woman’s release.

The AFI’s goals include creating a legal resources library for medical cannabis cases, training more legal consultants, and promoting collaboration between legal and medical professionals. ACHEM has partnered with the National Association of Black Cannabis Lawyers (NABCL) to facilitate this collaboration.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation has contributed $100,000 to support ACHEM’s efforts, emphasizing their commitment to advancing health equity. Dr. Jones emphasized that health equity ensures everyone’s access to full health and well-being, affirming patients’ right to choose their medicine without fear of harm.

The AFI aims to improve statistics related to cannabis incarceration rates and health disparities between white communities and communities of color. Through their efforts, they hope to create a more equitable and healthy society for all.