I enjoy marijuana. As a nearly forty-year-old suburban housewife with three children and a well-manicured lawn, my life is picture-perfect—complete with a stylish bong designed by Snoop Dogg, which I find both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Despite marijuana being illegal in my state, I easily obtain it from friends who live in nearby legal states. My family and I are conscious about our use; we don’t smoke around our kids or when we’re the only parents supervising them. We treat cannabis like an indulgent glass of wine.
Social services aren’t knocking on my door; they have bigger priorities than intervening in the life of a white mother who smokes occasionally. If they did, I could rely on my network of lawyers to help me out. The unfortunate truth is that white women often escape serious consequences for marijuana use, while others do not.
This piece is anonymous, not out of shame, but because my husband prefers to keep our family life under wraps. My friend, Another New Name, and I often joke about how we could drive down Main Street smoking without any repercussions—an example of the privilege we hold as white mothers.
The Injustice for BIPOC Parents
For mothers of color, the stakes are much higher. BIPOC parents face the constant threat of losing their children if they are discovered using marijuana, even if they are responsible. This fear is compounded by systemic inequalities; studies show that BIPOC children are disproportionately represented in the foster care system. Black children, for example, are significantly more likely to be removed from their homes than white children.
In 2015, a study revealed that Black children were 6.2 times more likely to be reported for abuse or neglect than their white peers. Jameelah’s story is a case in point; she lost her newborn merely for testing positive for marijuana, despite no evidence of harm.
The Consequences for BIPOC Women Who Use Marijuana
Take the case of Ms. D, who, despite never using marijuana in front of her children, found herself facing court after admitting her use to social services. To keep her kids, she was forced into a daily rehab program, losing her job and jeopardizing her family’s stability. If I were in her position, I would not face the same consequences.
The ACLU highlights the stark disparity in arrest rates between Black and white individuals for marijuana-related offenses. Despite similar usage rates, Black people are disproportionately arrested, facing dire consequences that white individuals often escape.
When discussing marijuana use, it’s crucial to acknowledge the privilege that allows some to indulge freely while others risk losing their families. The entire premise of shows like “Weeds” underscores this reality; white privilege plays a significant role in how society views cannabis use.
So, as you unwind with your joint, remember the systemic advantages you may have over your BIPOC neighbors, who can’t enjoy that same freedom without fear.
For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource: Wikipedia. For a deeper dive into cannabis use and its implications, you can visit Home Insemination Kit and see how it relates to broader themes about family and privilege.
Summary
This article explores the stark contrasts in societal treatment of marijuana use between white mothers and BIPOC mothers. While white women often enjoy freedom from repercussions, BIPOC parents face severe consequences, including the risk of losing their children. It highlights the systemic inequalities embedded in society and emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s privilege.