By Tiara Troup

All Love: Canna & Hip Hop

Cannabis has long been a part of the hip hop culture, dating back to the genre's early days in the 1970s. Hip hop artists have incorporated cannabis into their music, fashion, and lifestyle, and have even used it as a symbol of resistance and liberation. The relationship between cannabis and hip hop culture has been a positive one, promoting creativity, self-expression, and social justice.

One of the most significant ways in which cannabis has influenced hip hop culture is through music. Hip hop artists have used cannabis as a source of inspiration for their lyrics and beats, creating a genre that is known for its laid-back and relaxing vibe. From Cypress Hill's "Hits from the Bong" to Snoop Dogg's "Gin and Juice," cannabis has been a staple in hip hop music for decades.

But it's not just in the music where cannabis and hip hop intersect. The plant has also played a significant role in the fashion and lifestyle of hip hop culture. From the early days of bucket hats and Adidas tracksuits to the more recent trend of cannabis-themed clothing, hip hop has embraced cannabis as a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity.

Moreover, the relationship between cannabis and hip hop culture has also been an essential aspect of social justice movements. Hip hop has been a platform for marginalized communities to express themselves and fight against social injustice. The war on drugs, which disproportionately affects Black and Brown communities, has been a significant issue within hip hop culture. Artists like Tupac Shakur, who was a vocal critic of the drug war, used their music to raise awareness of the injustices faced by people of color in the criminal justice system.

In recent years, cannabis legalization has become a social justice issue, as well. With more and more states legalizing cannabis, there has been a movement to ensure that communities most affected by the war on drugs have equal access to the legal cannabis industry. Hip hop artists like Jay-Z have been at the forefront of this movement, using their platform to advocate for social equity and justice in the cannabis industry.

In conclusion, the relationship between cannabis and hip hop culture has been a positive one, promoting creativity, self-expression, and social justice. As cannabis continues to be legalized, we can expect to see more intersection between hip hop culture and the cannabis industry. It's an exciting time for both industries, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.