As a Canadian, I’ve become fascinated by how quickly the United States has managed to catch up with Canada’s legal cannabis scene, even without federal legalization or decriminalization.

The state-by-state approach within the U.S. seems to be working alarmingly fast, with new states loosening cannabis laws while others start promoting medicinal or recreational use.

In honor of the United States’ cannabis-oriented progress, it’s time we consumers band together, pay homage, and celebrate the plant within the month of April, also known as National Cannabis Awareness Month.

While you’ve probably heard of the infamous stoner holiday, 420 (April 20), it’s only been a few years since April was anointed its status as National Cannabis Awareness Month.

According to National Day Calendar, the term was founded by MariJ Pharmaceuticals in 2016 to raise awareness about marijuana’s vast health benefits while also celebrating the progressive legal landscape throughout the country.

National Cannabis Awareness Month was created to help consumers remember the long history we humans have had with the cannabis plant, which dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations using cannabis in dishes, medicine, and spiritual practices.

Today, cannabis users bond over their shared rejuvenating experiences that brought them together, helping them past difficult life moments and celebrating the good ones.

We also celebrate the 2018 Farm Bill that legalized hemp in the United States with less than 0.3% THC this month. The fact that the hemp plant with even minor traces of THC is federally legal is a clear indicator that national cannabis legalization will soon follow.

Celebrating National Cannabis Awareness Month is very easy, especially if you’re the average consumer.

The cannabis community is by far one of the most educated, curious, and inclusive communities out there, and celebrating this month could be as little as researching different aspects of the plant or sharing your canna wisdom with those who aren’t familiar.

You may also benefit from reading up on the 2018 Farm Bill and its beneficial impact on the United States’ economy. We also suggest looking into nonprofit organizations fighting for the expungement of cannabis prisoners, like The Last Prisoner Project.

April means spring, and spring means it’s time to sow your seeds. This Cannabis Awareness Month, share your love for the green by growing your first cannabis plant (only if your area legally permits you to do so).

Finally, don’t forget to use the hashtag #CannabisAwarenessMonth all month long.