Yo Soy Boricua, Pa’ Que Tu Lo Sepas: A Conversation with Jose Marrero in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

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Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th through October 15th, and it is dedicated to recognizing the important contributions and impact Hispanic Americans have made on the culture, history, and achievements of the United States. 

Hispanic Heritage Month provides a unique lens through which to examine the Hispanic community’s relationship with cannabis—both the challenges rooted in decades of stigma and disproportionate criminalization, and the opportunities for cultural celebration, business growth, and social justice reform. It’s a time to acknowledge the contributions Hispanic Americans are making to the cannabis industry and to address the barriers that still exist for their full participation.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we were fortunate to have the opportunity to discuss the experience of being Hispanic in the cannabis industry with City Farm Roslindale’s General Manager, Jose Marrero. 

What inspired you to pursue a career or interest in the cannabis industry as a Hispanic?

While pursuing a degree in Law Enforcement in college, I was fortunate to land a security position in the industry as an overnight security guard in 2017. As a passionate cannabis user, I saw it as a great opportunity to get my foot in the door and learn more about the industry firsthand.

Growing up, what role, if any, did cannabis play in your community or family? How has your view of it changed over time?

Cannabis was heavily present in my community, but in my household, if you used cannabis, you were seen as an outcast or a criminal. Over time, as the cannabis industry grew, I took the opportunity to educate my family on its potential benefits. I even encouraged some family members to try it for the first time. Fun fact: my mom is now a budtender! 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to other Hispanics looking to break into the cannabis industry?

Don’t be afraid of new beginnings! Many of us can be hesitant to join the industry for various reasons, whether due to language barriers or the fact that it might not align with traditional values. But the industry is evolving, and there are many opportunities for those willing to embrace change. “Adapt & Adjust”  

What has been your proudest moment as a Hispanic individual in the cannabis industry?

One of my proudest moments as a Hispanic in the cannabis industry was stepping out of my comfort zone and being able to stay true to myself. It felt empowering to take that leap and be part of an industry that’s evolving and breaking stereotypes.

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