Celebrating Pride Month: A Reading and Resource List on LGBTQ+ Cannabis Activists
Happy Pride Month from all of us at Dabstract! As we celebrate this vibrant and meaningful time, we honor the incredible individuals who have championed both LGBTQ+ rights and the cannabis legalization movement. To deepen your understanding and appreciation of their contributions, we've compiled a reading list featuring books about some of the most influential activists. Dive into these compelling stories and discover the powerful intersection of LGBTQ+ activism and cannabis advocacy.
"The Life and Times of Dennis Peron: How a Gay Hippie Outlaw Legalized Medical Marijuana" by Dennis Peron
Dennis Peron, known as the father of medical cannabis, played a crucial role in the passage of Proposition 215. This book chronicles his journey from a Vietnam veteran to a leading figure in the medical marijuana movement, highlighting his pivotal role in making medical cannabis legal in California. Read more on Amazon
2. Video - Americans For Compassionate Use, San Francisco
Explore the intersection of the AIDS epidemic and the cannabis legalization movement, driven largely by Peron's activism through archival footage. This online documentary provides a detailed account of how Peron’s efforts transformed public perception and legislation regarding cannabis. Watch on Youtube
3. “Medical Marijuana: The Story of Dennis Peron, The San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club and the ensuing road to legalization” by Michael Malott
Learn about the history of medical marijuana and its impact on society through the eyes of Dennis Peron, a gay rights activist and a pioneer in the fight for cannabis legalization. From his early years as a Vietnam veteran to his involvement in the San Francisco AIDS crisis, this book delves into Peron's personal struggles and motivations that led him to become one of the most influential figures in the medical marijuana movement. Read more at Amazon
“[Marijuana] should have never been scheduled in the first place. They say it has no therapeutic value. ... It’s medicine!”
- Dennis Peron
4. “Brownie Mary's Marijuana Cookbook and Dennis Peron's Recipe for Social Change” by Mary Jane Rathbun and Dennis Peron
Explore the recipes and anecdotes behind Brownie Mary's renowned cannabis brownies, as well as Dennis Peron's personal experiences and perspectives on the social change movements he contributed to, such as the struggle for medical cannabis legalization. It's a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a committed activist. Read more on Amazon
5. "Home Baked: My Mom, Marijuana, and the Stoning of San Francisco" by Alia Volz
This memoir tells the story of Alia Volz's mother, "Brownie Mary" Rathbun, and her role in providing cannabis brownies to AIDS patients in San Francisco. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the era and the impact of Mary’s activism on the cannabis movement. Read more on Amazon
“I know from smoking pot for over thirty years that this is a medicine that works.”
- Mary Jane Rathbun.
6. "When We Rise: My Life in the Movement" by Cleve Jones
While not solely focused on cannabis, this memoir covers Jones' extensive activism, including his work with Dennis Peron and others in advocating for medical marijuana during the AIDS crisis. It’s an inspiring story of resilience and activism. Read more on Amazon
7. "Stitching a Revolution: The Making of an Activist" by Cleve Jones
This book provides insights into Jones’ life and activism, offering context for his contributions to both LGBTQ+ rights and the medical cannabis movement. It's a testament to his enduring impact on social justice. Read more on Amazon
“Only when large numbers of people demand everything immediately do we ever get anything eventually.”
- Cleve Jones
8. "The Mayor of Castro Street: The Life and Times of Harvey Milk" by Randy Shilts
This biography covers Harvey Milk’s political career and his support for cannabis decriminalization as part of his broader advocacy for social justice. It's a detailed account of Milk’s legacy and his impact on both LGBTQ+ rights and cannabis reform. Read more on Amazon
9. "Harvey Milk: His Lives and Death" by Lillian Faderman
This book offers a comprehensive look at Milk’s life, including his alliances with activists like Dennis Peron and his support for the cannabis legalization movement. It's a powerful portrayal of a pioneering activist. Read more on Amazon
“Hope will never be silent.”
- Harvey Milk
10. "Smoke Signals: A Social History of Marijuana - Medical, Recreational, and Scientific" by Martin A. Lee
This book explores the broader history of marijuana, including significant contributions by LGBTQ+ activists. It provides a well-rounded understanding of how social movements have influenced cannabis policy. Read more on Amazon
Explore the Intersection of LGBTQ+ and Cannabis Activism
The activists featured in these books have made significant contributions to both the LGBTQIA+ community and the cannabis legalization movement. Their stories are a testament to the power of intersectional activism and the profound impact it can have on society. As we celebrate Pride Month, let's honor their legacies and continue to advocate for justice and equality in all forms.