Within many states, the laws for marijuana are being re-written. Out with the old, and in with the new. But even as new marijuana laws are being enacted, the age-old stigma around the drug remains. Many people are hesitant to speak about marijuana or admit to any type of personal use due to how it may make them look.
CBS news did multiple interviews on the streets of New York City, asking people if they used marijuana. “Just say no to drugs” one man said, “I definitely got high a lot over COVID… I mean, I’d probably feel weird if my mom saw this.” Another man admitted during the interview. Although studies show a large portion of Americans have used marijuana, many are fearful of speaking about it due to the possible repercussions.
Even 50 years after the war on drugs began, many businesses and high-level organizations are still unwilling to change their stance on marijuana. This leads many people to fear for the professional reputation, hiding their hobby when in public.
On the bright side, over the last few years many companies and organizations such as Amazon and Major League Baseball have issued new stances on the drug. These new stances allow their employees and players to use marijuana without fear of being fired. This shift towards a marijuana friendly country is a shift in the right direction. Due to many states legalizing, large corporations and organizations around the US will eventually have to adapt or die.
Many celebrities are also joining in on the public use of marijuana, helping reduce the stigma surrounding the substance. Elon Musk recently was seen on the Joe Rogan talk show smoking a joint. Once again, a step in the right direction.
Read the CBS article here.
