The burning debate

While many countries around the world, from Portugal to Uruguay, are decriminalizing recreational marijuana, the next question is a bit of a risk to answer.

In these present times where the world is still shrouded in COVID-19, almost everything has been categorized and labeled as essential and nonessential. Returning to the main question: is cannabis essential in these times?

To answer this question, we must analyze the market landscape and its growing diffusion. Take Canada’s most populous province, Ontario, and how it witnessed its growth within the province. Today, no one can walk a mile without passing a cannabis store in Toronto. Now this says something about the basic product that we are talking about here.

These cannabis stores have multiplied and contributed to the economy by creating jobs for many people. Not only that, legalization has given this sector a valuable life from the gray or black areas where it once lurked. Speaking of colors, Ontario has changed more color zones due to COVID-19 than a box of crayons. Each time the color of the zone changes, a different set of rules is applied. And when the rules change, so does the category of items that are available to the public. Generally, things are classified into two sets: essential and nonessential. So where is the cannabis? Frankly, it depends on the local government. For example, during the Ontario shutdown in April, items like crayons, books, and other art supplies were deemed nonessential. While all of this is discussed and categorized, how can one of the most popular items on the market, cannabis, not be discussed? Although, the fate of cannabis will always be debated from legalization to being an essential element. (It may also be the most debated merchandise in modern history.

As all of this is being distributed, we can’t help but ask. If alcohol is an essential product, why is it always doubted whether cannabis is essential or not? In the list of essential places to open, you will see a list of grocery stores, drug stores, and liquor stores.

Even in November 2020, cannabis retailers pleaded with the government to reopen in areas that were blocked. All stores want is to be open, like beer and spirits stores. While curbside pickup is generally allowed in most of these lockdown periods, you can’t just walk into a store like you can at any liquor store.

Another problem is that, unlike liquor stores, non-regulars can rely on people who work in cannabis stores for selection. It has been a difficult period in general; more lockdowns mean more staff laid off. This debate is nothing new. This cycle has been going on since March 2020.

Moving forward, we sincerely hope that things will improve for Ontario, the country, and the entire world, but for now, all we can do is hope that cannabis can also be seen as an essential item like liquor. This cannabis debate will be a long struggle, as official provincial liquor stores have been in business for years. Cannabis has arrived so far, but there are still many milestones to be covered for a ‘greener’ future. Until then, all we can do is stay safe, select the best selection from an Ontario cannabis store, and take a hit..

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