A Surprising Visit From the RCMP
It was a normal Saturday on February 22, 2025. The sun was shining. I was tidying the house while my mother recovered from knee surgery. My child was downstairs playing a game on the PlayStation.
Then, my father popped in and said, “Why are the RCMP here?” Curiosity struck. I looked out the window and saw them. They were here for me, Jessica Hope.
The RCMP officer introduced herself. She explained she was there because of an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers Canada. The report claimed I was involved in heavy drug use and abusing my child. Baffled, I assured the officer this was not true and explained my situation. I told her that I am a medical cannabis patient and work in the industry.
She reassured me that this wasn't a concern. The officer even seemed amused that someone wasted her time with a false report. I introduced my child to her, and they clearly saw that there was no abuse or heavy drug use occurring.
In summary, the interaction ended positively. The officer expressed relief upon learning it was a false report. She often handles distressing cases and appreciated the clarity of the situation.
The Impact of Stigma
What did this situation accomplish? It highlighted the major stigma that women face as cannabis users. Someone took time out of their day to make a malicious report simply because they don't like cannabis.
I have been a cannabis user for over 15 years. During this time, I have faced many challenges, including accusations and insults. However, being reported to the police was a new experience, especially in an era when recreational cannabis is legal.
Even before legalization, I was open about my cannabis use. This honesty has cost me friendships and led some people to view me as a drug addict. The stigma persists, particularly for women and mothers who use cannabis.
Society's Double Standards
We live in a society where drinking alcohol at sporting events is socially acceptable, including at our own children's events. However, the moment a parent chooses to unwind with a joint or enjoy a cannabis beverage around the campfire, they face judgment. This double standard is perplexing.
This experience is what motivated me to create High Moon Magazine. Our goal is to bring positivity to the industry and promote responsible cannabis use. Many individuals are hesitant to admit their cannabis use because they fear judgment or even intervention from Child Protective Services.
Balancing Parenting and Cannabis Use
You can be an excellent parent and a responsible cannabis user simultaneously. This is a reality many in the cannabis industry demonstrate daily. The stereotype that cannabis users are neglectful or irresponsible parents is outdated and inaccurate.
Many of us are committed to our families and careers, showcasing this balance every day. I consider myself fortunate to work in the cannabis industry. It allows me to contribute positively to the community while providing my child with a loving, supportive environment and valuable educational opportunities.
Educating the Next Generation
As my child approaches the age of 11, I take pride in the knowledge they possess about cannabis. They understand much more than the average adult. This understanding encompasses not only the plant itself but also themes such as responsible usage, health, wellness, and informed decision-making.
Having open conversations about cannabis cultivates an environment of trust and education. This approach enables my child to grow up with a well-rounded perspective on various subjects, including those that may be stigmatized or misunderstood.
In this way, being a responsible cannabis user can coincide with being a dedicated parent. It's crucial that we continue to break down these stigmas and demonstrate that cannabis use can coexist with positive parenting.
Furthermore, by fostering understanding and openness, we can help nurture a future generation that sees cannabis for what it truly is—a plant with both risks and benefits—rather than something to be feared.
In conclusion, the journey toward normalizing cannabis use and parenting must continue. We must advocate for understanding, compassion, and education in order to create a more accepting society. Each of our stories matters, and together, we can change the narrative surrounding cannabis for good.
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