(February 4, 2025) — In the wake of the federal funding freeze and its quick correction, the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association released a statement today addressing its impact on the cannabis industry and Indigenous communities across the US.
His Call to Action for Indigenous communities is clear — “Our communities must proactively build strong economic foundations that cannot be disrupted by external forces. The time is now to take control of our own destinies, capitalize on our inherent sovereign advantages, and create circular economies that serve our people first.”
See the full statement below and please let us know if you would like to connect for an interview. We appreciate your help in uplifting the voices of Indigenous communities who are impacted by these recent federal memos.
Statement from Rob Pero, President of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association, on the Recent Rescission of the Federal Funding Freeze:
“The recent decision by the White House Office of Management and Budget to rescind its memo freezing federal funding is a necessary correction to a reckless policy that created immediate uncertainty and potential harm to Indian Country. However, this should serve as a wake-up call for tribal nations across the United States. Our communities cannot afford to be at the mercy of shifting federal policies that threaten essential services, treaty obligations, and economic stability.
One of the primary reasons the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association was founded was to explore and implement self-reliant economic revenue streams that ensure financial sovereignty for our people—outside of gaming where applicable, but more importantly, outside of reliance on federal funding. The abrupt nature of this directive underscores the urgent need for tribes to strengthen their own financial security by investing in emerging industries where we hold unique advantages and have the potential to build thriving, self-sustaining economies.
Cannabis and hemp represent more than just economic opportunities; they are pathways to workforce development, health and wellness solutions, and long-term financial resilience. Tribal nations must take this moment to assess how they can leverage these industries—not only to drive economic growth but to reinforce their sovereignty and autonomy in a way that safeguards future generations.
While we welcome the rescission of this funding freeze, let this be a call to action. Our communities must proactively build strong economic foundations that cannot be disrupted by external forces. The time is now to take control of our own destinies, capitalize on our inherent sovereign advantages, and create circular economies that serve our people first.”