Exploring the Intersection of Feminism and Cannabis: The University of Utah’s Unique Course

The University of Utah has embarked on a pioneering academic endeavor with its new course titled “Feminist Cannabis Studies,” offered through its Gender Studies program. This upper-division course delves into the multifaceted relationship between cannabis and feminist theory, inviting students to rethink their perspectives on cannabis while evaluating social constructs such as gender, race, and sexuality.

Course Overview

At its core, “Feminist Cannabis Studies” aims to explore the historical context of cannabis prohibition and the burgeoning legalization movement. It examines the political, social, cultural, and practical intricacies of cannabis usage and its regulation. Students will engage with interdisciplinary and intersectional feminist frameworks that provide a comprehensive view of cannabis discourse across the U.S. and globally.

Thematic Focus

Central to the course are critical questions that frame its explorations:

• What does history tell us about the ways gender, race, sexuality, immigration, and class have shaped our understanding of cannabis?
• How has the image of cannabis functioned to maintain inequality based on these socially constructed categories?
• How have Communities of Color, LGBTQ+, and marginalized groups used and imagined cannabis in cultural, medicinal, and spiritual practices over time?

This thematic focus sheds light on the contributions of queer and trans* communities to the cannabis movement. The course also confronts the global implications of the War on Drugs spearheaded by the U.S. and considers the possibilities that may arise in a post-legalization landscape.

Meet the Instructor

The course is led by Dr. Magaly Ordoñez, a prominent figure in this interdisciplinary field. As a Latinx Sexualities Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Utah, Dr. Ordoñez has directed her scholarly attention towards the cultural and political histories of Chicanx and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities within the cannabis sector. Her dissertation thoughtfully examined the histories of these communities in Los Angeles, emphasizing how queer people of color have shaped cannabis spaces, resisting the commodification of cannabis while advocating for care and education within the community.

Understanding Gender and Labor in the Cannabis Industry

In her earlier writings, Dr. Ordoñez has highlighted important labor issues within California’s cannabis farms, particularly focusing on the exploitation of migrant women. She discusses how these women are often relegated to roles such as trimming cannabis flower buds and leaves, thereby exposing gendered and racial dynamics at play within the industry.

Transformative Learning at the University of Utah

“Feminist Cannabis Studies” is not just an isolated class; it is part of the broader academic framework within the School for Cultural and Social Transformation (also known as “Transform”). Transform encompasses four key fields: Ethnic Studies, Gender Studies, Disability Studies, and Pacific Islands Studies. Each of these disciplines examines complex themes such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, disability, health, and global diasporas, reflecting the school’s mission to address critical societal issues.

The Importance of Scholarly Discourse

This innovative course contributes to the growing body of academic work addressing cannabis and its societal implications, particularly through the lens of feminist studies. It encourages students to critically engage with a subject that is often shrouded in stigma and controversy, fostering a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural narratives surrounding cannabis.

Impact on Communities and Future Directions

As the conversation around cannabis legalization evolves, courses like this are crucial in ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are not only included but prioritized in discussions about the future of cannabis in society. By training the next generation of scholars in these critical approaches, the University of Utah is paving the way for more nuanced understandings of cannabis, intersectionality, and social justice.

Conclusion

The University of Utah’s “Feminist Cannabis Studies” course represents a significant step in integrating social justice into cannabis discourse, making valuable contributions to both academic scholarship and community advocacy. As more academic institutions begin to offer similar programs, this field of study will likely continue to expand, fostering greater awareness and deeper discussions around gender, race, and the implications of cannabis legislation.