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Cannabis Equity: Analyzing interests, policy, and spatial outcomes in Long Beach, California
Abstract:
<p>The criminalization of cannabis has had far-reaching effects on the social, economic, and spatial realities for low-income and communities of color in Long Beach, California. The Long Beach Cannabis Equity Program has been championed by various actors as a correction to the consequences of the historical over-policing and disproportionate incarceration in these marginalized communities. However, the definition of equity, program implementation, and geographic outcomes has challenged whether the program is resulting in equitable outcomes for participants, communities, and the city. This study delves into an evaluation of the program’s effectiveness in promoting equitable outcomes across these multiple scales. The study utilizes discourse network analysis (DNA) to trace the dominant themes and actors in the debate for cannabis equity through public comment in local newspapers and city council meetings. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with actors identified through DNA to add context and narrative to the themes of the policy debate. Through preliminary analysis of the DNA data, I have identified three types of actors in the debate—city officials, Long Beach cannabis business owners, and civil society. City officials and Long Beach cannabis business owners appear to have the most influence in the debate and are less likely to link other policy issues to equity, whereas civil society actors prioritize equity by co-linking equity to other policy issues. By analyzing the Long Beach Cannabis Equity Program, this research contributes valuable insights into the ongoing pursuit of cannabis equity, aiming to shape a more just and inclusive future for all stakeholders. </p>
Keywords: cannabis, equity, policy
Authors:
Kate Prell, California State University, Long Beach; Submitting Author / Primary Presenter
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Cannabis Equity: Analyzing interests, policy, and spatial outcomes in Long Beach, California
Category
In-Person Paper Abstract