"Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Cannabis Industry," the latest report from MJBizDaily, sheds light on the ever-evolving landscape of diversity within the cannabis sector. According to Andrew Long, data analyst and author of the report, "Understanding how these groups respond to change is one of the reasons MJBizDaily continues to survey the industry on diversity trends."
Recovering Diversity: About The Report
The report presents a heartening trend, indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels of diversity in executive positions within the cannabis industry's C-suite. In 2019, MJBizDaily revealed that more than 36% of marijuana executives were women, with 28% from minority communities.
However, 2020 marked by COVID-19 disruptions saw a significant drop in these figures, with women accounting for a mere 22% in executive positions and individuals from minority groups representing only 13%.
See Also: Diversity Driving Profits: How Inclusion Is Reshaping The Cannabis Industry
Diving Into Multifaceted Reasons For Renewed Diversity In Cannabis Leadership And Ownership
The reasons behind these shifts in leadership and ownership are complex and multifaceted. While identifying the exact causes proves challenging, several factors could contribute to the resurgence of diversity in the industry's upper echelons.
One plausible explanation lies in the post-pandemic return to normalcy. The upheaval of 2020 with its economic disruptions and uncertainty may have prompted some individuals, especially women and minorities, to temporarily leave the industry. As the cannabis sector stabilizes, there's a likelihood that these individuals are now re-entering leadership roles.
"There have been studies showing that the pandemic impacted women and minorities differently than white men. So, it could be as simple ...