Grammy-Winning Reggae Artist Urges Caribbean Governments to Decriminalize Marijuana

A Grammy-winning reggae artist is urging all Caribbean governments to decriminalize marijuana.

Damian Marley, seen here performing onstage at Last Prisoner Project’s Inaugural Journey To Justice Gala at Sony Hall on September 24, 2024 in New York City, wants marijuana decriminalized across the Caribbean. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Last Prisoner Project)

Reggae Artist’s Push for Decriminalization

Reggae artist Damian “Junior Gong” Marley, son of the late reggae great, Robert “Nesta’ Marley, is emphasizing the medicinal benefits and cultural significance of marijuana. Appearing on October 26th at the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica, Marley urged more nations to follow in the footsteps of countries that have eased restrictions on cannabis.

A Long-Time Advocate for Marijuana Use

A long-time advocate for marijuana use in both personal and religious contexts, Marley highlighted the plant’s healing potential, performing his hit song “Medication” alongside his brother, Stephen Marley. During the performance, Marley recited a poem celebrating the therapeutic and industrial uses of cannabis, underscoring the scientific and cultural support for decriminalization.

Decriminalization Efforts in the Caribbean

Marley commended Dominica for decriminalizing possession of small amounts in 2020, which permits up to 28 grams for personal use and the cultivation of three plants. Since 2014, several Caribbean territories – including Bermuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the U.S. Virgin Islands – have enacted or approved laws to decriminalize the use of small amounts of marijuana. Additionally, Barbados and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have legalized medical cannabis cultivation.

Marley’s Vision for the Future

As more Caribbean countries consider easing cannabis regulations, including Guyana and The Bahamas, Marley hopes to see regional governments expand their recognition of marijuana’s role in both healthcare and cultural practices, especially for the Rastafarian community.

About Damian Marley

In 2016, Marley, the youngest son of reggae legend and cannabis cult hero Bob Marley, went into business with the legal weed company Ocean Grown Extracts to convert a 77,000 square foot former California prison into a cannabis grow-op that would cultivate medical marijuana for state dispensaries. In 2017, he was also one of 20 investors who acquired a 60 percent stake in High Times, its digital media platforms and its increasingly popular Cannabis Cup trade shows. His net worth is estimated at USD 20 million.

Conclusion

As the debate surrounding marijuana decriminalization continues to gain momentum, Damian Marley’s advocacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing the medicinal and cultural significance of the plant. With his influence and passion, it is likely that more Caribbean governments will follow in the footsteps of those that have already taken steps towards decriminalization.

FAQs

Q: What is the current state of marijuana decriminalization in the Caribbean?

A: Several Caribbean territories have enacted or approved laws to decriminalize the use of small amounts of marijuana, including Bermuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Q: What is Damian Marley’s role in the cannabis industry?

A: Marley has been a long-time advocate for marijuana use and has been involved in various cannabis-related businesses, including Ocean Grown Extracts and High Times.

Q: What is the estimated net worth of Damian Marley?

A: According to reports, Marley’s net worth is estimated at USD 20 million.