Born and raised in New York, the story of this advocate starts in the heart of the city but now resides in the Lower Hudson Valley. From childhood, activism wasn't just a passion; it was in the DNA, a gift passed down by their mother. "I cannot remember a time before activism," they shared. This deep-rooted commitment continues today, now shared with their children. For Her, activism is not limited to protests or speeches-it manifests through education and entertainment.
Whether through writing articles, speaking to audiences, or producing documentaries like Cannabis + Creativity, Elana Frankel believes storytelling is at the core of activism. "It provides the space to think critically, unpack assumptions, and consider various viewpoints," she explained. It's this approach that helps dismantle problematic beliefs and open people up to new perspectives, ultimately fostering growth through learning-and unlearning.
The decision to advocate for cannabis was deeply personal. "The plant is medicine, and the focus is on patient and health equity," they noted. For Elana, cannabis represents more than just a product; it's a pathway to better health for people who have struggled with chronic pain, anxiety, stress, and sleep disruption. The aim? To ensure that everyone has access to the highest level of healthcare, including plant-based therapies.
"For decades, there has been a campaign against the plant with no scientific evidence to back up claims," she shared. Racism and misinformation fueled the anti-cannabis movement, damaging communities for generations. "The campaign has damaged generations of people," she emphasized. Addressing these misconceptions is central to their mission, with education playing a vital role in reversing the damage done.
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