RECAP & REPLAY: Indigenous Sovereignty and Cannabis

In episode 39 of The State of Craft, we had a detailed legal discussion about Indigenous sovereignty and its implications in the cannabis industry with guests Cory Brewer and Robert Laurie. The conversation delved into the historical context, existing laws, and the emergence of new court cases that further support the Indigenous right to self-govern. You can watch the replay and read a quick recap of this incredible discussion below. 

Cory's Story

7:30 - we introduce Cory Brewer, a member of the Syilx nation and the president of TIMIXw Wellness. Cory opened an off-reserve dispensary called Tupa's Joint in 2020, only to face a raid by the CSU for operating without a cannabis retail license. However, Cory firmly defended his actions by asserting his sovereign right to open the shop, citing UNDRIP/DRIPA as his legal basis (explained in detail later on). In his pursuit of justice, Cory joined forces with his lawyer, Robert, and together, they are taking legal action against the government to compel them to clarify their legislation surrounding DRIPA. Their goal is to not only secure Cory's rights to self-governance but also to pave the way for other indigenous nations seeking the same empowerment.

Robert's Introduction

9:32 - Robert W.E. Laurie, the founder of Ad Lucem Law Corporation, an international cannabis, and psychedelic lawyer, has been working with indigenous clients for a decade. He has covered a wide range of issues that relate back to sovereign aboriginal rights. Robert is also well-known for his work in the cannabis space, making him an excellent attorney for Cory, as his case is the intersection of cannabis and indigenous sovereignty.

What is UNDRIP and DRIPA?

16:53 - Robert explains the meaning of UNDRIP and DRIPA. UNDRIP stands for the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, while DRIPA refers to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. UNDRIP operates at an international level, while DRIPA is a provincial-level legislation enacted in British Columbia. Cory and Robert are basing their arguments on the province's implementation of DRIPA, which provides a framework for indigenous self-governance. 

Will Their Lawsuit Change Things for Areas Outside of Cannabis?

1:13:05 - Robert's conviction regarding their legal case is inspiring. He believes that their fight could be the catalyst for change in the Indigenous community, expanding beyond the scope of cannabis. Their success could set a powerful precedent for Indigenous self-governance, potentially leading to a transformative shift in the current government structure.

To learn more about indigenous voices in cannabis, watch The State of Craft episode 29 with the Williams Lake First Nation.