Editor's Note: From the lingo to the attire and the images used in publicity materials and by the media, it all feeds or breaks down stereotypes. And breaking down stereotypes is part of what will convey a more accurate representation of the industry and help the public at large understand the industry better. Our constituents in Aspen are on the right track.Â
You might also want to read a very relevant blog by CBT's publisher, "Changing Marijuana's Image: 3 Steps to Expedite Public Acceptance."
And while everyone may not agree that using the word marijuana is "pejorative," Cannabis Business Times certainly isn't against making cannabis the industry's preferred term.
To some purveyors of that green, leafy and legal-in-Colorado substance – as well as its edible, drinkable and fellow byproducts – the term “pot shop” makes them cringe. You also can add “weed,” “marijuana,” “dope” and other monikers to a list of terms that makes them as uncomfortable as those opposed to the legalization of – let’s get it right, now – cannabis.
“In a certain aspect, it’s about being politically correct,” said Jesse Miller, one of the owners of the Leaf Aspen recreational dispensary. “Calling our products ‘dope’ (as a noun) is politically incorrect.”
As Colorado enters its second year of legalized recreational marijuana sales, many in the industry are trying to distance themselves from the stoner-esque vocabulary that they claim fuels an unfair stereotype.
