The Grasshopper Club is not your everyday Chicago cannabis dispensary.
It’s the city’s first independent, Black-owned cannabis dispensary, symbolizing a significant step forward for diversity in the industry.
Originally conceived by a family from the South Side, their vision went beyond simply selling cannabis products, aiming to create a local dispensary that would contribute to a more inclusive ecosystem.
This Cannabis Dispensary Stands For Inclusivity
The Grasshopper Club serves as an inspiring example for Blacks wishing to break into the predominantly white cannabis industry.
The cannabis dispensary gives employment opportunities and offers several products, including:
- Edibles
- Smokeable flowers
- Vape pens
The driving forces behind this enterprise are Diane Brewer and her sons, Chuck Brewer and Matthew Brewer.
Diane manages the accounting aspects while Matthew handles business management and Chuck oversees the daily operations.
Located at 2551 N. Milwaukee Ave., the Grasshopper Club represents a family endeavor rooted in heritage and legacy.
For Chuck, this venture comes full circle.
After he experienced legal troubles due to multiple arrests for marijuana possession in his youth, he’s now on the lawful side of the industry.
In 2019, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed an equity-focused law to legalize the adult use of cannabis in the state, officially commencing on January 1, 2020.
House Bill 1438, a measure promoting equity and investment in communities the war on drugs has affected, is a model for the legalization and decriminalization of cannabis.
Seizing the opportunity, the Brewer trio pursued a social equity license from Illinois in 2019 to establish their dispensary.
However, they faced delays and other obstacles due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Matthew, handling the business side of the cannabis dispensary, was already involved in the industry since Illinois legalized medical marijuana in 2014.
“It was this opportunity for wealth creation, generational for my mother and my brother.”
Take the time to visit this Black-owned dispensary, the Grasshopper Club, and show your support today!
