For Black History Month, we are honored to feature Delegate Jazz M. Lewis, a dedicated advocate for social justice, cannabis legalization, and economic equity in Maryland. Representing District 24 in Prince George’s County, Delegate Lewis has been instrumental in shaping policies that create opportunities for communities historically impacted by cannabis prohibition. In this interview, he shares his journey into politics, his commitment to equity in the cannabis industry, and his vision for a more inclusive future in Maryland.

1. What inspired you to get involved in politics, and what was your path to becoming a state delegate?

I was inspired to get into politics when I was about to be priced out of my education at UMD during the great recession. So, my friends and I organized to stop an incoming tuition hike. It was through this that I learned the power of collective organizing and the importance of being involved in politics.

2. Was there a defining moment in your career that solidified your commitment to social equity and cannabis legalization?

A defining moment for me was the birth of my son. I developed a deep urgency in my work to improve the world I was raising him in. One of the most pressing issues I felt we could take action on was finally ending and healing the deep wounds of the War on Drugs.

3. What advice would you give to young leaders looking to make an impact in government and policy?

The best way to make an impact is to organize about local issues, show up where you are needed most, and lend a helping hand. Learn how to be a bridge builder and how to advocate effectively.

4. You have been a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization and equity. Why is this issue so important to you?

This issue is important to me because, as a young Black man, I am painfully aware of how different my life could have been if I had made only a couple of different choices in my life. The War on Drugs has damaged our society, and it is only through putting equity first that we will be able to heal and restore the lives damaged by our previous failed policies.

5. What challenges still exist in ensuring true equity within the industry?

The challenges we face are ensuring that we fully empower the Office of Social Equity to make sure that it has the tools necessary to fulfill its mission.

6. What steps can Maryland take to improve access to licensing, capital, and business opportunities for Black and minority entrepreneurs in cannabis?

More extensive community outreach to those areas that were hardest hit by the War on Drugs, I think, would help make sure that these areas know their options for participating in the recreational industry.

7. Looking ahead, what “big idea” would you love to see come to fruition in Maryland’s cannabis industry?

I would love to see us expand even further the social equity license piece of the cannabis industry.

8. What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind after a long day in politics?

I play a lot of Disney songs on the guitar for my kids.

9. If you weren’t in politics, what career do you think you’d be pursuing?

I entered undergrad expecting to become an architect, which did not work out. Now, I think I would be a teacher or professor if I wasn’t in politics.

10. Maryland is known for its amazing food. What’s your go-to meal or favorite restaurant in the state?

Sardi’s chicken

11. What message would you like to share with Marylanders about the future of cannabis in our state?

Maryland is taking crucial steps toward not just a quality recreational market for cannabis but one that puts equity front and center by uplifting those communities hardest hit by the War on Drugs.