Dasheeda Dawson, the founding executive director of Cannabis NYC, announced that she is stepping down from her role. Cannabis NYC, launched in 2022 under the New York City Department of Small Business Services, was created to help entrepreneurs navigate cannabis licensing and business development. Dawson, who previously served as Portland, Oregon’s top cannabis official, stated in a LinkedIn post that she is “transitioning to the next phase in my career” and plans to focus on expanding her impact at the state and federal levels.
However, her abrupt resignation has drawn scrutiny following a New York Times report revealing that she has been under investigation for several months regarding a sexual harassment complaint. The complaint, filed by Jamila Washington and Monifa Foluke, alleges that Dawson blacklisted their company, Repot Box, after Washington refused a polyamorous relationship proposition. Repot Box is a cannabis industry tech company focused on improving recycling practices.
Dawson has denied the allegations, asserting that her decision to resign was unrelated to the investigation. Officials have been investigating the claims since June 2023, and the outcome remains uncertain.
Her departure leaves Cannabis NYC at a pivotal moment as New York’s legal cannabis market continues to develop. The agency has yet to announce Dawson’s replacement or any changes to its leadership structure.
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