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At a Jan. 16 press conference held at the Naomi & Sylvester Smith Senior Living Center on Chicago’s South Side, members of the Illinois Black Hemp Association gathered to voice their concerns over recently proposed legislation that threatens the very foundation of the hemp industry in Illinois.
With the American Dream hanging in the balance, advocates highlighted the potential repercussions of House Bill 4293. The bill seeks to impose restrictive regulations on hemp extraction and processing.
The 2018 Farm Bill was meant to usher in a new era of opportunity for small farmers and entrepreneurs in Illinois. However, thanks to the efforts of the IBHA and supporters, the proposed legislation has now been dismantled, signaling a regression.
“These changes would have effectively criminalized all hemp extraction in Illinois, devastating our small businesses and family farms,” stated a representative from the association.
Among those present were veterans and community members who have experienced the life-changing benefits of hemp products.
A 77-year-old brain cancer survivor shared her story, emphasizing how daily use of hemp products has allowed her to live without a cane or walker while also enjoying her passion for Chicago stepping.
“Hemp has done great things for me,” she declared, echoing sentiments shared by others in the community.
Ruth, a 76-year-old former CTA employee, praised hemp salve for alleviating her knee pain to the extent that she no longer needs a knee replacement. Their testimonials underscored the critical role of hemp products in enhancing the quality of life for many, including those marginalized.
Samuel Wilson, owner of the Prohibition THC Cafe, expressed frustration with the political landscape.
“Working our way through Illinois politics is hard enough as it is,” he said, noting that obtaining the required state cannabis licensing has been excessively difficult.
The IBHA, a coalition of responsible small business owners and family farmers, called for collaborative efforts with legislative leaders, including Illinois Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, who has been instrumental in halting HB4293 and advocating for more equitable legislation.
“We ask that care be taken with regards to Black farmers, urban agricultural educational initiatives, and holistic practitioners,” said an IBHA member. “We do not want to demolish an economic ecosystem designed to level the playing field for previously disenfranchised communities.”
The association criticized Gov. JB Pritzker’s approach, which they argue seeks to bundle the hemp industry with the larger cannabis sector, potentially locking Black individuals out of vital economic opportunities.
“Our American Dream is under attack,” they lamented, imploring lawmakers to ensure that their voices are heard and that they are included in discussions about the future of the industry.
Dwayne Hirsch, a former Chicago resident who moved to Georgia in 2019 to become one of the pioneers of industrial hemp farming, spoke about his experiences navigating the political landscape. He highlighted the critical need for support and advocacy for Black and urban farmers. Hirsch employs over 25 people in Georgia and has established a facility that hosts tours for senators, congress members, school principals and state legislators, showcasing a vibrant job creation model in Southeast Georgia.
As the IBHA continues to fight for responsible regulation, it remains committed to proper labeling, testing and packaging of hemp products. Its mission is clear: to build a sustainable ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders and ensures that the promise of the American Dream is realized for everyone in the community.
As the event concluded, the message was unmistakable: the Illinois Black Hemp Association stands united in its resolve to protect the rights and opportunities of Black farmers and small business owners in the state, pushing back against legislative efforts that threaten their livelihoods and dreams.
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“}]] Members of the Illinois Black Hemp Association gathered on Chicago’s South Side to oppose House Bill 4293, which they say threatens Black farmers and small businesses. Read More
