Josh Kesselman, the founder of RAW Rolling Papers, isn’t holding back when it comes to his thoughts on the current state of cannabis legalization. He believes that both sides of the political spectrum are playing a game, pretending to champion the cause while ultimately serving the interests of big corporations.
“I think both sides are pretending to be on the side of the plant, while they are likely accepting huge donations from mega healthcare, tobacco and liquor companies that financially benefit from cannabis being criminalized,” Kesselman told Benzinga Cannabis exclusively.
This sentiment echoes the recent shift in political discourse, with former President Donald Trump unexpectedly voicing support for legalization in September, while Kamala Harris’ pro-legalization stance has been resonating with voters for months. However, Kesselman remains skeptical. “Basically, I think both sides will pretend to support our cause but do precious little to truly help,” he stated.
Kesselman’s journey in the cannabis industry began in 1993. In a June episode of Benzinga’s Cannabis Insider podcast, he spoke candidly about the challenges and valuable lessons he’s learned over the years. He stressed that genuine growth in the industry comes from a deep connection with the product and the community, not just from chasing market trends. His unwavering commitment to social impact, particularly focused on communities disproportionately affected by cannabis laws, is evident in his philanthropic efforts.
Kesselman is balancing his efforts to push for cannabis rescheduling with his commitment to giving back. He recently pledged $25,000 through RAW Giving to Freedom Grow, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses. This donation, in addition to millions of dollars he has already contributed to various causes, will help expand Freedom Grow’s outreach and provide essential services to incarcerated individuals and their families.
Kesselman speaks from personal experience about the harsh realities of outdated cannabis laws. “Back in the 1990s, I had my door kicked in by federal agents with a boot on my back and a gun to my head—all for selling bongs,” he shared. “They tore my family apart and the repercussions remain with us to this very day.”
Kesselman believes that education and advocacy are key to driving positive change in the rapidly evolving cannabis landscape. He urges consumers to support ethical companies that stand with the plant and the community. “The more of us that become successful, the more resources we have to fight for what’s right,” he stated.
He believes that continued pressure on lawmakers is essential for achieving meaningful policy changes. “It all starts with education and coming together as a community to make positive changes for all,” Kesselman emphasized. “Don’t stop speaking on the things that matter and putting pressure on lawmakers to do better.”
Until significant change happens, organizations like Freedom Grow will continue to provide vital support to individuals who have faced decades of incarceration, some even serving life sentences, for cannabis-related offenses.
Kesselman’s message is a powerful reminder that while political rhetoric may be shifting, true progress requires unwavering advocacy and community involvement to ensure that the cannabis industry truly benefits those who have been marginalized and impacted by its criminalization.