It’s 2023; cannabis is legal in over half of the states in the United States, is the fastest-growing industry, is creating more jobs than the manufacturing industry, and has made millions of dollars in every state that has legalized it in some form. Even with all of this advancement, the federal government holds cannabis on the highest schedule of dangerous drugs: Schedule 1, keeping it prohibited, therefore keeping it illegal for the VA to discuss cannabis-related treatments for Veterans.
There are groups that advocate for Veterans and their access to cannabis, and there has been approved research focused on the benefits of cannabis benefits for Veterans. Joining support for Veterans and cannabis is KJ Saffold.
KJ is the founder of the Green Zone and a U.S. Army Veteran with specialties in performance-focused leadership, technological project management, and strategic talent development. He is a cannabis business owner, author, and social equity license recipient from Chicago, Illinois. He created a platform through the Green Zone that caters to Veterans, community, and positive change.
Continue reading to learn more about the Green Zone, Green Zone events, and the Green Zone team.
About the Green Zone Community, Mission, and the Team
The Green Zone connects members of the cannabis industry around their shared interests in veteran advocacy amongst consumers. Specializing in community connections, the Green Zone offers cannabis businesses, enthusiasts, consumers, and advocates a chance to tell their stories and learn with and from each other.
The Green Zone represents a place of inclusivity and safety, offering a designated space for veterans who want to connect with cannabis. Be it wellness, lifestyle, or education, the Green Zone welcomes those in support of cannabis to join the meaningful conversations.
KJ explained, “The Green Zone successfully created a dynamic forum for veterans, social equity advocates, and cannabis industry leaders. These pioneering gatherings underscore the Green Zone’s dedication to exploring the intricate challenges at the intersection of veterans’ welfare, social equity, and cannabis advocacy.”
In the context of a military war zone, “The Green Zone” refers to a secure location during times of conflict. A place that is guarded and fortified with security measures that protect against threats and attacks. The term creates a sense of security for those within its boundaries.
The Green Zone envisions elevating quality of life while setting the standard for enhanced learning, responsible advocacy, and a supportive community. When I asked about the Green Zone mission, KJ stated:
“Our mission is to enable an inclusive, secure nexus for veterans, enthusiasts, and leaders. It provides enhanced learning opportunities while advocating for equitable, accessible policies. United by collective wisdom, we empower the cannabis community in their pursuit of a high quality of life.”
Utilizing their Discord community and meeting up in person, The Green Zone provides enriched educational experiences through workshops, programs, lectures, courses, seminars, retreats, and training sessions. Their holistic personal and professional development approach empowers their community members to lead high-quality lives.
As the founder of the Green Zone, KJ plays a pivotal role in setting direction and focus. KJ says:
“The remarkable contributions of Project Manager Leeah Dollar-Olmos and Event Planner Ru Johnson are crucial in bringing the Green Zone events, like Fog of War, to life.
The Green Zone Presents: Fog Of War
There are multiple events within the cannabis industry happening each year all over the country. While those events may highlight Veterans, none of the events has a special focus on Veterans. KJ identified that void and, through the Green Zone launched Fog of War.
The term: Fog of War “metaphorically represents the complexities and uncertainties prevalent at the crossroads of veterans’ issues, social equity, and the evolving cannabis sector. The theme captures the essence of the Green Zone mission and sets the stage for meaningful discussions and insights.” KJ went on to explain that:
“The Fog of War is an annual event that will continue to evolve, offering fresh perspectives and insights on vital issues affecting veterans and the cannabis community each year. We hosted our most recent event in Denver, CO, at Tetra Lounge, and plans are in place to host these events in different locations, broadening our reach and inviting diverse voices to contribute to this crucial dialogue.”
Sneak Peek into the Fog of War; Denver, CO 2023
In November 2023, the Green Zone hosted the Fog of War at Tetra Lounge in Denver, CO. The event explored the intersection of cannabis, veterans, and innovation and brought together industry leaders, veterans, and advocates to chart the course for the future of cannabis and its impact on veteran well-being.
In an intimate space with live painting underway, under the evening sky, just after the Army vs. Air Force football game, a meet-up of people in support of cannabis took place, wanting to make change happen. The space embraced a very diverse attendee and vendor list.
KJ provided insight on the speaker lineup at the Fog of War. He stated:
“The dynamic lineup of influential speakers and panelists enriched the atmosphere, each bringing unique insights and expertise:
- Mang-Yee Reverie: expertly guided the event’s discussions and the MC, blending advocacy and a deep understanding of cannabis culture.
- Steven C. Philpott Jr.: highlighted cannabis science as it relates to high-performance individuals and its potential benefits, especially for veterans.
- Natacha Andrews, Esq.: provided a legal lens on the intersection of cannabis and social justice.
- LaVaisha Davis: emphasized the importance of financial strategy and literacy in the cannabis sector.
- Jessica Breemen, MSW, PSM: broadened our understanding of social impact within the cannabis industry.
Final Words
I asked KJ to close out our chat with final words about Green Zone’s most recent Fog of War; he stated:
“The inaugural Fog of War event was more than just an event; it was a transformative experience that brought together diverse perspectives to shape the future of veterans’ welfare and the cannabis industry. It was a place where attendees could learn, engage, and be part of a movement driving positive change. Join us as we continue this exciting journey, creating spaces for dialogue, action, and progress in these vital areas.”
Follow Veronica on social media: #travelingcannabiswriter
