Cannabis Pioneers #004 – Mary Jane Rathbun
Welcome to another installment in the groundbreaking feature from Hemp Living: the "Cannabis Pioneers" series. We are thrilled to celebrate those visionaries who have shaped the cannabis culture and industry, from legendary figures to emerging talents. Each edition will spotlight a key influencer who shares a profound passion for cannabis, just like us. Dive into our latest issue below and join us on this enlightening journey into the life of Mary Jane Ruthbun!
Mary Jane Rathbun, known as Brownie Mary, was a legendary figure who was celebrated for her love of baking and cannabis. Hailing from Chicago in 1922, she later made her mark in San Francisco as a trailblazing advocate for medical marijuana. Brownie Mary's unwavering spirit and passion played a pivotal role in shaping the history of cannabis legalization in the United States.
BEGINNINGS & DAILY LIFE
Mary Jane Rathbun's journey into cannabis activism began in the 1970s when she started baking and distributing cannabis brownies to AIDS patients in San Francisco. She was deeply moved by the suffering of AIDS patients and witnessed firsthand the positive impact of cannabis in alleviating their symptoms, particularly nausea and loss of appetite. Her act of compassion and advocacy for the medical use of cannabis led her to become known as "Brownie Mary."
Mary Jane Rathbun, also known as Brownie Mary, was a compassionate and dedicated advocate for the medical use of marijuana. She seamlessly intertwined her passion for baking with her genuine belief in the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, positioning herself as a devoted caregiver to those in need. Brownie Mary's legacy is marked by her pioneering efforts in providing cannabis-infused brownies to AIDS patients. This gesture not only offered much-needed relief but also significantly contributed to the transformation of public attitudes and policies surrounding the use of cannabis for medical purposes.
HER FIGHT FOR LEGALIZATION
Brownie Mary's activism extended beyond her baking endeavors. She actively campaigned for the legalization of medical marijuana. She was involved in numerous advocacy initiatives, including lobbying for the passing of Proposition P in San Francisco, which made the medical use of cannabis a low priority for law enforcement.
In 1981, after her first arrest, she was sentenced to 500 hours of community service. She completed this sentence by working with the Shanti Project, one of the pioneering AIDS support organizations. In one of her most famous quotes was during her sentencing. She said to the judge, "Not so long ago, a mature woman healing sick people with special herbs would have been labeled a witch." Although Rathbun was never tried as a witch, she did appear in court twice for cannabis-related charges. During her last trial in 1992, at the age of 70, she faced a serious felony transport charge. Rathbun’s prosecutor allegedly remarked, “I’m going to kick this old lady’s a$$,” suggesting a future jail sentence. Based on her efforts and help given to the community and her standing with patients, the judge dismissed the charges.
BAKING WITH MARY
With her popularity and platform, she co-wrote and used "Brownie Mary's Marijuana Cookbook and Dennis Peron's Recipe for Social Change," a delightful blend of delectable recipes and fascinating storytelling. She and Dennis Peron, a charismatic cannabis advocate, teamed up to create this book that not only shares mouthwatering cannabis-infused treats but also chronicles their adventures in the world of marijuana activism. From pot brownies to cannabis-infused culinary delights, this book offers a flavorful journey through the intersection of marijuana advocacy and the joy of cooking. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of history, "Brownie Mary's Marijuana Cookbook and Dennis Peron's Recipe for Social Change" is a must-read for anyone interested in the fun and flavorful side of cannabis culture.
In her heyday of compassionate baking from 1984 to 1990, Rathbun was a brownie-making powerhouse, churning out an estimated 1,500 brownies a month! What's even more incredible is that she funded this operation with her social security checks and cannabis donations from local dealers. It's like a superhero story, but with brownies.
WHY CELEBRATE MARY?
Mary Jane Rathbun's legacy as Brownie Mary continues to inspire both cannabis enthusiasts and activists. Her passion for baking and cannabis epitomizes the compassionate and therapeutic potential of marijuana. Brownie Mary's advocacy work and her empathetic approach to cannabis activism have left an indelible mark on the movement for medical marijuana legalization.
The “grandma who baked pot brownies for sick people” was unanimously voted August 25 as “Brownie Mary Day” which is still annually celebrated in San Francisco.
In honor of Brownie Mary's enduring legacy, her story reminds us of individuals' profound impact in challenging societal norms and advocating for the rights of patients in need of alternative medical treatments. Mary Jane Rathbun, or Brownie Mary, remains an iconic figure celebrated for her unwavering dedication to the advocacy of medical marijuana and her compassionate spirit that lives on in the hearts of many.
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