Inside The First Black And Latina-Owned Vertically Integrated Cannabis Company In The US

In a rapidly evolving cannabis industry, where social equity remains an ongoing challenge, Standard Wellness Maryland is making history. Led by Christina Betancourt Johnson, the company is the first African American and Latina majority-owned, vertically integrated cannabis company in the United States—as confirmed by the company with the social equity office in Maryland.

Now, with the opening of The Forest in Baltimore's Canton neighborhood, Johnson and her team are bringing their vision of wellness, community and representation to life.

“We are incredibly honored to break new ground in Maryland’s retail cannabis landscape,” said Johnson, who also serves as the company's CEO. "Our promise is to promote wellness and empower our community by being a trusted source for holistic well-being."

A Business Rooted In Representation

The Forest represents the culmination of years of effort to create opportunities in an industry that has historically marginalized people of color. The cannabis sector, despite its multi-billion-dollar valuation, still sees minority ownership as an exception rather than the rule. The launch of The Forest is a tangible step toward reversing that imbalance.

"This moment is not just about one business—it's a step toward leveling the playing field and fostering inclusive growth across our economy," said Delegate C.T. Wilson, chairman of the Economic Matters Committee and co-sponsor of Maryland's House Bill 556, which established adult-use cannabis in the state.

For Johnson, representation isn't just about ownership, it's about creating an ecosystem where diverse voices shape the industry. With leadership positions on the U.S. Cannabis Council and the National Hispanic Cannabis Council, as well as a role as vice chair of The Maryland Wholesale Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD), she has been a consistent advocate for minority participation in the cannabis space.

Her work caught the attention of Maryland's governor, Wes Moore, who appointed her to the Advisory Board on Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis, a key regulatory body shaping the future of cannabis in the state.

The Forest: A Dispensary Designed For Community

In Baltimore's historic Canton neighborhood, The Forest is more than a retail location. It's a wellness hub where customers can explore cannabis in a welcoming, education-focused environment. With a carefully curated selection of high-quality, sustainable products, the dispensary serves both medical patients and adult-use consumers, prioritizing their needs with a thoughtful approach.

"The Forest is where everyone can pursue their wellness journey with support and empowerment," Johnson explained.

From the start, The Forest prioritized building relationships with the local community. Amanda Bourgeois, president of the Canton Community Association, recognized the company’s efforts early on.

"The Forest Dispensary has taken a thoughtful approach to becoming a valued partner within our community by engaging with the Canton Community Association early on," she said. "Their commitment to total wellness and collaboration reflects a dedication to contributing meaningfully to both our neighborhood and the broader Baltimore community."

A Grand Opening With Purpose

The grand opening of The Forest earlier this year was a ribbon-cutting ceremony that carried deeper significance—a celebration of perseverance and progress. The event brought together lawmakers, local leaders and the community for speeches, live entertainment, meet-and-greets and a showcase of local food vendors.

For many, this new business stands as a testament to what's possible when equity initiatives take root and create real opportunities.

"When businesses like these thrive, so does the broader community," said Wilson.

As cannabis continues its march toward mainstream acceptance, Standard Wellness Maryland is setting a precedent. With a clear mission, deep community ties and an unwavering commitment to equity, The Forest is making history while actively shaping the future of the industry.

Photo by Teeming Visions, courtesy of Standard Wellness Maryland