There is no question that we, as a country, have a moral obligation to build restorative measures for those who have been negatively impacted by the War on Drugs. Black and brown individuals and communities have been unfairly targeted and are still paying the price for an exploding industry that the majority of Americans believe should be legal for recreational use. If we want to re-invest in these communities fully, we need to accept responsibility for the decades-long stigma as well.
Legitimate research to understand the medicinal benefits of cannabis allows for an opportunity to truly de-stigmatize the plant. It is not enough to decriminalize or legalize and then free the incarcerated of cannabis crimes. Changing the mindset of society so that these individuals are accepted and feel welcome on the other side is critical. And that is a job that should not fall on the shoulders of the already disadvantaged. This is a job for those who know the power of the plant and are ready to prove it. Cannabis is utilized as a medicine, and it needs to be recognized as such. The cannabis industry is accountable and there needs to be the realization that research should be a priority, not an afterthought.
There are frustrations among industry advocates and stakeholders because we still find ourselves caught in an era of prohibition. However, it has been written about by universities that advocacy research is necessary to influence the formal and informal policies established by policymakers. Not only does the research need to be conducted but there needs to be collaboration in the scientific and political communities where research is translated into law and policy, a gap that widely hinders advances in public health.
Realm of Caring serves to fill this gap with our Observational Research Registry (ORR). Alongside Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, we are gathering and publishing compelling data on how individuals are using cannabis for their ailments in everyday life.
Read below our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) statement on industry accountability so you may learn more about Realm of Caring’s initiatives, and how you can get involved.
Industry Accountability
The Realm of Caring is committed to extending DEI efforts to engage the industry in its responsibility to appropriately represent the history, research, and future of cannabis.
Our Commitment
We will play an active role in righting the wrongs of our industry’s past by speaking loudly about the injustices of our legal system and the impact on families and communities, particularly those of color. Our goal is to transform society by understanding our fears and challenging oppressive ideologies, policies, and systems.
- Through research and education, we will actively pursue the legalization and acceptance of cannabis use.
- Through research and education, promote a culture that destigmatizes and normalizes cannabis use for medical or recreational purposes.
- Through partnering with stakeholders and sponsors to embody the collective message that speaks to cannabis legalization and acceptance.
- Through advocacy for the rights and dignity of all people by rejecting criminalization and stigma of drug use.
- By openly influencing social and legislative reforms that represent the industry’s supporters and customers.
You, too, can take part in these efforts. Here is how:
Whether you are a cannabis user or non-user you can join. Cannabis and hemp users may report on what product they are using and how they are using it in their everyday lives. Caregivers may report on behalf of cannabis and hemp users. For non-users, this is an excellent way for you to advocate on behalf of someone who is using cannabis or hemp – your participation is equally as important.
Donate so that we may continue to publish research.
As of now, we have published 3 compelling articles. It is our goal to continue to recruit and publish more so we may further legitimize cannabinoid therapy. Our research also fuels our free call center where we help individuals worldwide with their questions about cannabis. Our work is far from done, help us keep it going.
Are you a product company? Get your product in research!
ORR data represents an alternative solution to profile medicinal use of cannabinoid products on individuals’ health conditions in their natural environment. Repeated assessments provide a rich opportunity to examine the impact of cannabinoid therapy over time among individuals with a diverse list of health conditions. ORR data also provides the opportunity to examine product dosing over time and between products.
View the results from our published research papers:
Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Effects of Medicinal Cannabis Use in an Observational Trial, 2021
Disclaimer
The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.
The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.
