Women in the Cannabis Industry Lead Despite Gender Bias Challenges

Women are playing pivotal roles in the cannabis industry, leading various sectors such as business management, legal services, and cultivation. Despite their contributions, they often remain unrecognized and face gender biases. According to a report by Cáñamo, these women describe themselves as strong and independent, yet they continue to encounter a male-dominated environment that can be dismissive of their capabilities

Interviews with fifteen women in the cannabis industry reveal a spectrum of experiences, from those who have never felt gender discrimination to others who face it regularly. Some women in the industry, like the mánager of Kannabia Seeds Company, Zoe Molino, argue that the use of women's bodies in advertising reflects a lack of confidence in product quality. This practice, according to Molino, perpetuates sexism within the industry, where women are often seen as objects rather than professionals

The cannabis industry, like many others, exhibits instances of sexism and microaggressions, ranging from organizing meetings in inappropriate venues to dismissing women’s authority in leadership roles. Anna Obradors, director of We’Canna, highlights how women are often accused of being emotional or manipulative when they voice dissenting opinions. These stereotypes can undermine women's professional credibility and hinder their career advancement

Despite these challenges, some women have managed to thrive, finding supportive environments where their contributions are valued. For example, Cristina Sánchez, a researcher at the Universidad Complutense, shares that she has not experienced gender-based discrimination in her field. However, the broader industry still has significant progress to make in fostering gender equality, as noted by veteran activist Marisa Fernández, who emphasizes the need for women to take on leadership roles

The path forward for women in the cannabis industry involves not only breaking stereotypes but also ensuring that men participate in creating a more inclusive environment. Anna Obradors underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between genders to achieve meaningful change. As the industry evolves, it is crucial that both men and women work together to dismantle sexist practices and promote equality