By Michael PoppaDukes Serrano
Just an observation: the cannabis industry has historically been a boys’ club. But in New York? Women are flipping that script in a major way. From the boardrooms of state agencies, women in cannabis New York are stepping up. At the front lines of community advocacy, they are leading the charge.
These trailblazers are reshaping what equity, opportunity, and success look like in one of the nation’s most promising cannabis markets. And if you’re not paying attention to them yet, it’s time to start.
Here are five powerhouse women who are breaking barriers and building a more inclusive New York cannabis community right now.
1. Jessica GARCIA – Championing Workers’ Rights from the Top
Jessica García isn’t just sitting in a seat of power. She is using her position to transform the industry from the ground up. As Chairwoman of the Cannabis Control Board, García brings a unique perspective. Her background as Assistant to the President of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) shapes this perspective.
What does that mean for the average cannabis entrepreneur in NYC? It means there’s someone at the top who genuinely understands the struggles of working people.
García’s focus on occupational safety and equitable industry standards is reshaping how New York approaches cannabis regulation. She’s not interested in policies that only benefit the big players. She is advocating for frameworks that protect workers and create real opportunities for communities that have been left behind.
(“Workers’ rights and cannabis equity aren’t separate issues: they’re the same fight.”)
For cannabis entrepreneurs NYC looking to build sustainable businesses, García’s leadership signals a regulatory environment that values people over profits.
2. Crystal Peoples-Stokes – The Architect of Equity-Centered Legalization
New York’s cannabis laws are unique. To understand them, consider the influence of Crystal Peoples-Stokes. As Assembly Majority Leader, she was instrumental in the architecture of the state’s equity-centered legalization policies.
Peoples-Stokes didn’t just fight for legalization: she fought for the right kind of legalization. She worked alongside advocates and legislators. She ensured that resources and opportunities flowed back to the communities most harmed by prohibition.
Think about that for a second. Other states were rolling out cannabis programs that primarily benefited wealthy investors. New York was building something different. It aimed to create a framework designed to uplift BIPOC entrepreneurs, formerly incarcerated individuals, and underserved neighborhoods.
Her work is a reminder that policy matters. The rules of the game determine who gets to play, and Peoples-Stokes has been rewriting those rules for years.
3. Dasheeda Dawson – Building an Equitable Market in the Big Apple
When it comes to women in cannabis New York, Dasheeda Dawson is a name you need to know. As the founding director of Cannabis NYC, she’s leading the city’s charge toward creating a truly equitable cannabis market.
Dawson isn’t new to this. She was a corporate strategist and co-founded the Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition. She brings both business acumen and a deep commitment to social justice to her role.
Under her leadership, Cannabis NYC has prioritized community interests over corporate expansion. That’s not just a talking point: it’s a strategy. Dawson has been instrumental in shaping policies that give local entrepreneurs a fighting chance against deep-pocketed multi-state operators.
(“An equitable market isn’t built by accident: it’s built by intention.”)
For anyone trying to break into the New York cannabis community, Dawson’s work at Cannabis NYC offers inspiration. It serves as a beacon of hope. It represents that the system can actually work for the little guy.
4. Hope Knight – Economic Development Meets Cannabis
Hope Knight might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about cannabis. However, her influence on the industry is undeniable. As President, CEO, and Commissioner of Empire State Development, Knight serves on the Cannabis Control Board. She brings serious economic development expertise to the table.
We’re talking about someone who has overseen more than $150 million in investments throughout her career. That kind of experience is invaluable. New York is working to build a cannabis industry that creates jobs. The industry will generate tax revenue and stimulate local economies.
Knight’s presence on the Cannabis Control Board ensures that economic development isn’t an afterthought: it’s baked into the regulatory framework. For cannabis entrepreneurs NYC looking to scale their businesses, her focus on investment and growth is a major asset.
5. L. Simone Washington – The Guardian of Social Equity
Last but definitely not least, L. Simone Washington is doing some of the most important work in New York cannabis right now. As Chief Equity Officer at the New York Office of Cannabis Management, she is responsible for embedding social equity. She integrates it throughout the state’s regulatory framework.
Let’s be honest: a lot of states talk about equity. Few actually follow through. Washington’s role exists specifically to make sure New York doesn’t just talk the talk.
Washington focuses on licensing priorities and community reinvestment. They lead efforts to ensure that those most impacted by the War on Drugs benefit first from legalization. It’s a massive job, and she’s tackling it head-on.
Her work is a beacon for anyone who believes that cannabis legalization should be about more than just commerce. It should also be about justice.
Why Representation Matters in the Cannabis Industry
These five women represent something bigger than their individual accomplishments. They embody policy-making. They showcase labor advocacy. Community-centered business development is another aspect they represent. Finally, they highlight regulatory oversight. This array of roles is defining New York’s cannabis industry.
And here’s the thing: representation at the top changes everything. When women have seats at the table, the policies reflect a broader range of experiences. When BIPOC leaders are included, their priorities are considered as well. That’s not just good for equity: it’s good for business.
The New York cannabis community is watching. They see a state where women aren’t just breaking barriers. They are building something better on the other side.
Hear More Stories of Women Breaking Barriers
Want to dive deeper into the experiences of women leading in cannabis? The OG Social Network Podcast has been amplifying these voices since day one.
Check out our conversation with Dr. Chanda Macias in Ep 1: “They Not Like Us” – A Black Woman’s Perspective in a Male-Dominated Industry. Dr. Macias breaks down what it’s really like to navigate the cannabis industry as a Black woman. Trust me, you’ll want to hear every word.
And don’t miss Dawne Morris in Ep 2: Born to Lead – Dawne Morris, Canna-Tech-Preneur, Talks Women in Tech. As co-founder of Proteus420, Dawne is revolutionizing cannabis business operations while championing women in tech.
The Future is Female (and It’s Green)
New York’s cannabis industry is still young. The foundation being laid right now will determine its trajectory for decades to come. Thanks to leaders like Jessica García, Crystal Peoples-Stokes, Dasheeda Dawson, Hope Knight, and L. Simone Washington, that foundation is being built with equity, opportunity, and community at its core.
Breaking into the cannabis industry is a dream for many. This is particularly true for women and BIPOC entrepreneurs. These leaders are proof that change is possible. The barriers are real, but so is the progress.
Stay connected with The OG Social Network Podcast for more stories from the front lines of New York’s cannabis revolution. Because when we amplify these voices, we all rise together.
Sources
- New York State Cannabis Control Board, “February 2026 Board Meeting Summary,” Office of Cannabis Management, February 5, 2026.
- New York State Office of Cannabis Management, “Enforcement Powers and Penalty Structure,” April 2024.
- Office of Governor Kathy Hochul, “Governor Hochul Announces Closure of 1,600+ Illegal Cannabis Shops in New York City,” Press Release, 2024-2025.
- New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, “Cannabis Tax Revenue Reports,” 2024-2026.
- Colorado Department of Revenue, “Marijuana Tax Data,” 2014-2026.
- THRIVE: Photo Credit Princeton University
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About the Author
Michael PoppaDukes Serrano is the Executive Producer and Host of The OG Social Network Podcast. The podcast covers the intersection of cannabis, culture, politics, and community in New York. PoppaDukes has deep roots in advocacy. He is committed to amplifying marginalized voices in the industry. PoppaDukes brings the street cred and real talk that the community conversation needs. Follow the podcast for unfiltered conversations with the trailblazers, entrepreneurs, politicians, and activists shaping the future.