Freedom By Another Name: Featuring Mary Bailey
In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline interviews Mary Bailey, co-founder and managing director of the Last Prisoner Project (LPP). They discuss cannabis industry opportunities alongside the persisting issue of cannabis-related incarcerations. Mary shares her journey from event production in Hawaii to becoming an advocate for cannabis justice. The episode highlights LPP's work, aiming for the release of cannabis prisoners and promoting a socially conscious industry. Mary's story includes partnerships with artists like Damian Marley and Jim Belushi and emphasizes storytelling as a tool for change.
Listen in as we speak about:
Purpose-Driven Advocacy
A Momentous Mission
The Power of Storytelling
Building a Conscious Cannabis Industry
Coalition and Community Building
Call to Action
And much, much, more!
Purpose-Driven Advocacy
Mary Bailey shares her journey from an event producer to a passionate advocate for social justice, focusing on the plight of those incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses. The Last Prisoner Project aims to address the stark contrast between the booming legal cannabis industry and the thousands still serving prison time for activities now considered legal. Through partnership-building, community engagement, and relentless advocacy, Mary and her team are driving meaningful change and fighting for systemic reform.
A Momentous Mission
The catalyst for Mary's involvement was a poignant realization that sparked her advocacy journey. Upon witnessing a heart-wrenching story of a cannabis prisoner separated from their family, Mary felt compelled to take action despite initial feelings of unqualification. Her story speaks to the power of purpose-driven action, a theme explored throughout the episode as Madeline and Mary discuss the importance of stepping into roles of leadership and impact, even when it feels daunting.
The Power of Storytelling
Throughout the episode, Mary emphasizes the critical role of storytelling in changing hearts and minds. By humanizing the stories of those impacted by cannabis criminalization, Mary seeks to create empathy and awareness that drive action and reform. The personal stories of individuals like Richard DeLisi, who spent over three decades in prison, highlight the grave injustices and underscore the need for advocacy and change.
Building a Conscious Cannabis Industry
Madeline and Mary delve into the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis industry, exploring how businesses can align with social justice causes. The episode calls for the industry to not only benefit economically from legalization but also to take responsibility for addressing the injustices faced by many who paved the way for today’s legal market.
Coalition and Community Building
Mary’s experience in event production shines through in her approach to building coalitions and engaging diverse groups in advocacy. The conversation highlights the importance of collective action, encouraging listeners to find their place in the movement, whether through direct advocacy or by supporting organizations working tirelessly in this space.
Call to Action
As the conversation wraps up, Madeline and Mary stress the importance of activism and involvement at local and national levels. They share ways listeners can engage, from supporting The Last Prisoner Project through donations and action items to having conversations that shift perceptions around cannabis and justice.
Connect with Mary:
Linkedin
Website
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