Cannabis is rooted in at least 4,800 years of human culture. Nevertheless, recent legalization changes and research have revolutionized weed’s impact on our communities. Representing weed culture in art, media, and politics has helped break taboos and stigmas. As a result, people are more likely to discuss its uses, benefits, and safest practices.
1. Weed in Movies and TV
Weed has been depicted in movies, TV, and other art for decades. However, older representations of cannabis culture often had to be more subtle to avoid facing penalties from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Songs and shows that explicitly mentioned weed would not air on most stations and would often stir public controversy. Instead, cannabis use had to be implied — ever wonder why Shaggy and Scooby-Doo always got the munchies after walking out of a foggy Mystery Machine?
Fortunately, a lot of that has changed. Today’s media often pushes the envelope on cannabis representation by explicitly mentioning and showing it. This is important for breaking cannabis’s cultural taboo. Simply knowing an artist you enjoy lights up now and then may encourage you to rethink weed and the stigmas you’ve heard.
Some of the most popular examples of weed in movies and TV include:
- The Big Lebowski
- Pineapple Express
- Dazed and Confused
- Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle
- Ted
- High Fidelity
- Atlanta
- Disjointed
- Weeds
- Broad City
2. Weed in Art and Music
Weed art and music are often crafted while high — for part of the process, at least. Weed’s impact on creativity lets artists access unique parts of their imagination, or focus in ways they couldn’t before.
Other examples of cannabis-centric music and art are specially made for people under the influence. Weed art often uses bright colors and optical illusions to grab viewers’ attention. Meanwhile, songs often use slow beats, alluring keys, and soothing voices to lure the listener’s ear.
Some of the most popular songs about weed include:
- “Mary Jane” by Rick James
- “The Next Episode” by Dr. Dre
- “A Day in the Life” by The Beatles
- “Pass That Dutch” by Missy Elliot
- “Young, Wild & Free” by Wiz Khalifa & Snoop Dogg
- “James Joint” by Rihanna
- “Dooo It!” by Miley Cyrus
3. Weed in Politics and Healthcare
Cannabis is medically legal in about 75% of the United States. We are still learning more about cannabis wellness, including its uses, benefits, and potential risks. Though further studies are needed, weed may treat insomnia, chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions.
Much of today’s political and cultural efforts are meant to reverse the damage caused by cannabis prohibition. This prohibition was based on stigmas, prejudices, and harmful misinformation that continues to be spread.
Today, activists and organizations, such as the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), push for social and political reform, including federal legalization.
Celebrate Weed Culture With Harbor House Collective
At Harbor House Collective, we are dedicated to supporting weed culture and our local community. This extends from community involvement to guaranteeing a place to purchase safe, high-quality weed. Visit us online or in person to discover more.
