Canna Crawl is more than just a gathering—it’s an Invitation to experience the magic of the plant

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

As I arrived at the secret location (it changes every time) I saw the vibrant posters, saw some familiar vendors, and a diverse group of cannabis enthusiasts. A stage at the front of the room featured: a microphone, and a banner reading “Canna Crawl” hung in the background. There was a sense of excitement and anticipation that was in the air, one that I had gotten used to, and knew I would have felt.

Attention, cannabis connoisseurs of Ontario! I want to welcome you to the 420 Festival Canna Crawl, which was held at a secret (shhhh) location on Saturday, April 20^th, 2024. It is quietly becoming the heartbeat of the underground cannabis movement, where passion meets rebellion, and tradition meets innovation.

Hosted by Anthony Foster and Reena Rampersad, it was amazing to see a community united in their love for the plant, their defiance against unjust laws, and their commitment to the legacy of cannabis culture. Here, in the shadows, away from the prying eyes of the establishment, we celebrated not just the herb itself, but the spirit of community and freedom it represents.

Imagine entering a vibrant venue pulsating with energy, where the air is infused with the scent of exotic strains and the atmosphere hums with excitement. It was a room filled with enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and newcomers alike.

Now, picture a diverse crowd, united by their shared passion for the plant, mingling and exchanging stories. From seasoned growers discussing cultivation techniques to entrepreneurs showcasing innovative products, there was something for everyone. The hosts did a great job of creating an ambiance that was inclusive, welcoming, and fostered a sense of community and camaraderie.

As I made my way through the 420 Festival Canna Crawl, I encountered a kaleidoscope of experiences. Booths adorned with colorful displays offered a glimpse into the latest trends in cannabis culture, from artisanal edibles to state-of-the-art vaporizers. Knowledgeable vendors eagerly shared their expertise, guiding me through the myriad strains and consumption methods.

It was not just about the products; it was about the connections forged and the conversations sparked. I walked in just in time to catch the panel hosted by Reena Rampersad, a lively discussion on the medicinal benefits of cannabis, the intersection of cannabis and activism, and the evolving legal landscape. It was a melting pot of ideas and perspectives, fueled by a shared appreciation for the plant’s potential to heal, inspire, and unite.

“But let us not forget the roots from which we spring, “Reena exclaimed. “The legacy cannabis distributors who paved the way for us all. These brave individuals risked it all to ensure that cannabis remained accessible to those who cherished it, and tonight, we honour them by providing a platform for their products, their stories, and their enduring passion.”

One of those individuals is someone who I am very proud of; on the stage sat Vivian Green. With GreenPort, Vivian has made history as the first woman of colour to run a cannabis company in Canada. Her goal is to build community through her business, and along the way, address some of the gaps in Canada’s cannabis sector that have historically left women and people of colour behind. “We have to take cannabis back; back to the roots. When cannabis was just a plant used to heal our aches and pains. Before people chased stock prices, and before racialized communities were targeted.”

“It’s no secret that Black and Indigenous people are more likely to be charged with weed possession than their unracialized counterparts, and repairing the damage to those communities is something I am about. In many ways, enjoying weed has been weaponized against people of colour because a “negative stereotypical narrative has wiped out all of the long histories of use from a spiritual, religious, or just a health perspective.”

It’s disheartening to witness the ongoing stigma and barriers faced by people of color in the cannabis industry. Despite its cultural significance and historical ties to communities like the Caribbean, many are still marginalized, stigmatized, and disproportionately targeted by law enforcement.

There’s a glaring disparity in representation and opportunities within the cannabis sector, and it’s crucial to address this imbalance. Breaking down these barriers not only fosters economic empowerment but also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of communities who have cultivated and celebrated the plant for generations.

Rectifying this stigma requires systemic change, including policy reform, community education, and equitable access to resources and opportunities. By actively working to dismantle these barriers, we can create a more inclusive, and just industry where all communities, including the Caribbean community, can thrive and benefit from their cultural heritage.

So, my fellow enthusiasts, let us embark on this journey together. Let us explore the vast array of strains, products, and experiences that Canna Crawl has to offer. They have one coming up in July, so stay tuned.  Let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles of freedom, equality, and justice that lie at the heart of our movement.

As the event drew to a close, I left with newfound knowledge, cherished memories, and perhaps a few new friends. With its warm embrace and boundless enthusiasm, Canna Crawl is more than just a gathering—it’s an invitation to experience the magic of the plant and the vibrant community that surrounds it.