Following Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signing of the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act in June 2019, legalizing recreational marijuana, Chicago’s cannabis industry has thrived, projecting a $1.5 billion revenue. Notably, Community, supported by OURS, a Black-owned, women-led group advocating for Organic Urban Revitalization Solutions, has made a significant impact. Founded by Anton Seals Jr., J.T. Stinnette, Jamaal Kendrick, and Chris “Dough” Fryison, along with silent partners, OURS aims to address social equity in the cannabis space. Despite initially aiming for a dispensary license, they secured infuser and transporter licenses. Over two years, the group collaborated within the state’s legalization network, assisting new applicants, and partnering with the Chicago Urban League. Shifting focus to job opportunities without plant handling, OURS partnered with Nature’s Grace and Wellness in 2021. This collaboration introduced community bars, featuring milk and dark chocolate with a blend of taste and THC, incorporating lion’s mane mushrooms, Reishi mushrooms, and vanilla. Led by Tanya Ward, OURS has successfully navigated the evolving cannabis market, emphasizing social equity and economic opportunities.









