Update 04/03/2021 4:22pm:

Jay-Z and his cannabis brand Monogram previously called out the hypocritical regulations related to drugs, specifically cannabis in the United States. While many are now capitalizing on the legal sale and distribution of recreational marijuana, there have been many Black and brown people who are still serving prison sentences as a result of restrictive drug laws. However, New York recently made a move to legalize marijuana in the state. Because of that, Jay-Z has given his thoughts on the move by the state he was raised in.

The rapper said, “The news of cannabis legalization in New York is incredibly exciting. It represents a long-overdue opportunity for New Yorkers, for the cannabis industry, and for social equity and social justice.”

He continued saying “I’ve seen first- hand the harm inflicted for generations against Black and minority communities by the war on drugs right here in New York. Today, I’m proud to see my home state join The Parent Company in paving the way for a thriving and equitable cannabis market.”

As of now, New Yorkers who are 21 and over can use and possess up to three ounces of weed. However, marijuana is banned on beaches, parks, playgrounds, as well as smoking in your car.

source: Rolling Stone


Original 03/02/2021 3:12pm:

Jay-Z’s move into the cannabis world came in the form of his Monogram brand, which finds him partnering with California-based company Caliva. Now, Monogram has reportedly launched a campaign that calls out the hypocritical regulations related to marijuana in the United States.

Jay-Z issued a statement on the matter, saying, “Cannabis laws are out of date and disproportionately cruel and punishing when compared to the rest of the legal code. We still don’t have proper regulation for texting and driving in Missouri, but staying home and smoking weed will get you locked up.”⁠

He continued, saying: “I created this campaign to amplify the voices of those who have been penalized for the very same thing that venture capitalists are now prospering from with the emerging legal cannabis market. Far too often, we forget that these are real people whose everyday lives and futures have been affected by this outdated legislature – people like Bryan Rone, who can no longer pursue a career in sales because of a cannabis-related conviction in 2003.”⁠

Monogram’s campaign will place billboards and advertisements in larger cities like New York, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Chicago, and more. Stay tuned for more updates.

source: Complex


Original 10/23/2020 4:38pm:

Jay Z announced the launch of his new cannabis brand, Monogram, which is the first venture to emerge from his partnership with California-based company Caliva.

Jay was named Chief Brand Strategist for Caliva in 2019, and part of his role involves focusing on social justice issues surrounding legalization. Jay addressed his role at Caliva in 2019, stating, "Anything I do, I want to do correctly and at the highest level. With all the potential in the cannabis industry, Caliva’s expertise and ethos make them the best partners for this endeavor. We want to create something amazing, have fun in the process, do good and bring people along the way." 

Jay has yet to release a statement about Monogram, which was launched with a new website and Instagram, but they stated that they plan to launch the "best in class e-commerce platform dedicated exclusively to its singular product line." 

More details to come.

Source: Revolt