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Indigenous ‘Cannabis Harvest Gathering’ taking place in BC

Published on November 11, 2022 by David Wylie

The future of Indigenous cannabis in the legal industry is the main topic at the inaugural Cannabis Harvest Gathering in BC later this month.

Organizers say they have invited elected Indigenous councillors, economic development leaders, as well as cannabis farmers, processors, and retailers to the event, set for Nov. 18-20 in the North Okanagan.

In an email invite, Cory Brewer and Greg Hopf call the event an “historic gathering” of BC, Canadian, and US Indigenous leaders.

During the conference, held in the Vernon area and on territory of the Syilx Okanagan People, attendees will craft a response to the federal Cannabis Act review.

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“By coming together and pooling our expertise, we believe the results of the gathering will help facilitate job creation, strategic tourism partnerships, social and economic development opportunities for Indigenous and rural communities across Nations and throughout Canada,” organizers say in their email invitation.

They continue: “The message we want to send is that many Indigenous governments in BC are open for cannabis business opportunities and ready to lead. We are excited to build on the significant work that has already been completed by Indigenous organizations and launch into a new era of collaboration.”

Brewer represents Syilx Cannabis Society Consulting and Hopf represents Moccasin Trails.

Attendees will also:

  • learn about business opportunities for Indigenous people
  • share opinions about Canada’s evolving legal cannabis industry
  • advance the cannabis policy proposals developed and approved by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and Assembly of BC First Nations
  • promote education and dialogue regarding medical cannabis consumption and traditional methods of farming and plant processing

Ticket information for the Cannabis Harvest Gathering

The early-registration rate for Indigenous participants is $100. Tickets are available online here.