Marquee Event Recap: Benefit Honoring, A Powerful Dialogue
Benefit Honoring: The Evolution of Indigenous Reciprocity in Psychedelics
We proudly hosted an extraordinary event this past Saturday, May 20, 2023, centered around the crucial topic of Indigenous Reciprocity in Psychedelics. With the participation of esteemed speakers Ariel Clark, Lucas Gerler, Troy Sia, and moderator Christian Gray, attendees were treated to an enlightening conversation that delved into the evolving relationship between psychedelics and indigenous tribes. The event not only shed light on the historical contributions of indigenous communities but also presented new business models that can foster mutually beneficial partnerships in the psychedelic industry.
Understanding Indigenous Reciprocity:
Across cultures and throughout history, psychedelics have played a significant role in indigenous communities, serving as conduits for spiritual practices and cultural heritage. Unfortunately, the indigenous knowledge surrounding these substances has often been marginalized or exploited by mainstream societies.
Our Marquee Event aimed to address this imbalance by emphasizing the concept of Indigenous Reciprocity. It highlighted the importance of honoring and respecting indigenous communities' contributions, promoting cultural preservation, and ensuring equitable compensation for their invaluable wisdom.
The event presented innovative business models that can pave the way for transformative partnerships between the psychedelic industry and indigenous tribes. These models focus on principles such as profit-sharing agreements, community-led initiatives, and strategic collaborations that prioritize the well-being and empowerment of indigenous communities. By adopting these new approaches, psychedelics companies can contribute to breaking the cycle of historical exploitation and build a more inclusive and sustainable industry.
EmmaClaire & Olivia greet and check in our members and guests.
District216 Chief Dreamer puppeteers giant tongue by Matthew McAvene.
Guests enjoy Ray’s Infused Lemonade.
The lounge is a comfortable space to connect.
Our friends at the Indigenous owned Kinoko from Oakland showcase their incredible functional mushroom products.
Our friends at Muse educate people about microdosing.
A fan favorite, the Shiftwave Chair will reset your somatic system and bring your body out of an anxious state after just minutes.
We really enjoyed having Nowatch at this event with their innovative wearable technology that brings mindfulness into our daily lives.
Culinary Confidential provided incredible mediterranean faire.
Culinary Confidential buffet line.
Culinary Confidential provided incredible mediterranean faire.
The crowd assembles in the parking lot.
MC and comedian Chris Williams from Let Loose Comedy opens up the crowd before the Benefit Honoring discussion panel.
An engaged audience at District216 Marquee Event.
Chris Williams introduces Jacob Tell.
Chief Dreamer Jacob Tell gives a presentation outlining the importance of Benefit Honoring, District216’s initiative to decriminalize entheogenic plants & fungi in Santa Barbara, as well as a review of 12 District216 events held in the past 2 months.
Renowned for her advocacy in cannabis and psychedelics law, Ariel Clark brought her extensive expertise to the conversation. Clark emphasized the need for legal frameworks that facilitate fair and equitable partnerships between indigenous tribes and the psychedelic industry. She discussed the importance of recognizing indigenous sovereignty and empowering tribal communities to actively participate in the burgeoning industry.
A visionary entrepreneur with a focus on regenerative agriculture and indigenous collaboration, Lucas Gerler shared his experiences in developing sustainable business models. Gerler underscored the significance of incorporating indigenous wisdom and practices into the psychedelic industry. By doing so, he highlighted the potential for economic opportunities that benefit both the industry and indigenous tribes, fostering mutual growth and respect.
Troy Sia, an indigenous rights advocate and representative of tribal communities, provided invaluable insights into the importance of cultural preservation and empowerment. Sia highlighted the significance of meaningful engagement and active involvement of indigenous tribes in decision-making processes within the psychedelic industry. By amplifying indigenous voices, Sia emphasized the potential for transformative change and a more inclusive future.
Christian Gray, a prominent figure in the psychedelic space, skillfully moderated the event, ensuring a well-rounded discussion that covered key points. Gray's deep understanding of indigenous rights and his commitment to facilitating equitable dialogues further enriched the conversation.
An engaged crowd learns about Benefit Honoring.
Troy Sia.
Projection art by Decelorator Lightsmith Visual.
The scene inside LoDo Studios.
Electric Sea Sponge played an outstanding set of funk and jazz inspired instrumentals.
Be sure to catch Electric Sea Sponge anytime you have the chance.
Cannabis bar serving Ray’s Lemonade, Splash Nano, and Sunstone Spritzers.
Art by Matthew McAvene.
Art by Matthew McAvene.
Art by Brett Skoonz.
People enjoying Art by Brett Skoonz.
By embracing new business models that prioritize indigenous partnerships, cultural preservation, and equitable compensation, the industry can forge a path that promotes justice, equality, and mutual growth. District216.com takes great pride in hosting events that facilitate thought-provoking conversations and drive positive change.
We remain dedicated to furthering these discussions and supporting the evolution of Indigenous Reciprocity in Psychedelics.
