Exploring Feminist Cannabis Studies: A Revolutionary Course at the University of Utah
The University of Utah is making waves in academia with its innovative course titled “Feminist Cannabis Studies.” Offered through the Gender Studies program, the course aims to delve into the multifaceted world of cannabis through the lens of feminist theory.
Course Overview
This upper-division course focuses on the exploration of feminist cannabis studies as both a field and a subject of study. Students are encouraged to critically evaluate their own understandings and assumptions surrounding cannabis culture, history, and its legal status.
Key Themes and Discussions
Throughout the semester, the course will investigate various crucial aspects such as:
- The history of cannabis prohibition and the legalization movement.
- The political, social, cultural, and practical intricacies of cannabis usage.
- Historical and contemporary feminist discourse on cannabis across the United States and globally.
The course also dives into notable topics like Queer/Trans* Activism and Racialized Histories, prompting students to consider questions such as:
- How have elements such as gender, race, sexuality, immigration, and class shaped societal views on cannabis?
- What role does the image of cannabis play in perpetuating inequality based on these socially constructed categories?
- How have marginalized communities, including Communities of Color and LGBTQ+ individuals, historically utilized cannabis in various cultural, medicinal, and spiritual contexts?
Impact on Communities and Cultures
As part of the curriculum, students will also learn about the significant contributions of queer and trans* communities to the cannabis movement. The discussions aim to expand on the implications of the War on Drugs, which has disproportionately impacted these communities.
Discussions will also touch upon the potential future of cannabis following federal legalization, acknowledging the importance of social justice and equity in this rapidly evolving industry.
Meet the Instructor
The course is taught by Dr. Magaly Ordoñez, a Latinx Sexualities Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Utah. Dr. Ordoñez brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, having written extensively about Chicanx and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities and their impact on cannabis cultural and political histories.
In her dissertation, she explored how the historical contexts surrounding queer communities of color in Los Angeles challenge the commodification of cannabis. She focuses on the importance of care, education, and political advocacy in community spaces, providing students with a unique perspective on cannabis culture.
Addressing Industry Inequality
Dr. Ordoñez has also raised critical points about the exploitation of immigrant women in California’s cannabis farming scene. She highlighted how gendered roles within the industry often confine women to menial jobs, such as trimming cannabis flower buds and leaves, showcasing the ongoing issues of labor inequity.
Transform: The School for Cultural and Social Transformation
“Feminist Cannabis Studies” is a component of the School for Cultural and Social Transformation at the University of Utah, often referred to simply as Transform. This school encompasses diverse academic fields, including:
- Ethnic Studies
- Gender Studies
- Disability Studies
- Pacific Islands Studies
The mission of Transform is to explore critical themes surrounding race, racism, gender, sexuality, disability, health, and global diasporas. This interdisciplinary approach offers a comprehensive understanding of social justice issues and fosters an environment for rich academic dialogue.
Conclusion
The emergence of courses like “Feminist Cannabis Studies” marks a significant milestone in academic discourse, opening the door for a deeper understanding of cannabis within various societal contexts. As cannabis legalization becomes increasingly commonplace, the importance of examining its intersectional implications—via gender, sexuality, and race—becomes crucial.
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