Cannabis Censorship: A delicate Dance
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and become more mainstream, social media platforms are facing increased pressure to allow for the promotion and discussion of cannabis-related content. However, many platforms still have strict rules in place that prohibit or heavily restrict such content, leading to censorship and frustration for cannabis businesses and advocates.
If you're a cannabis business or advocate looking to promote your content on social media, you may have faced censorship or had your content removed at some point. While it can be frustrating, there are ways to overcome social media censorship and get your message out to your audience.
Here are some tips for overcoming social media censorship for cannabis content:
Understand the policies of each platform.
Before you start posting cannabis-related content, it's important to understand the specific policies of each platform you plan to use. Some platforms may have stricter rules than others, and understanding these policies can help you avoid unnecessary issues.
For example, Facebook has a zero tolerance policy for the sale of illegal drugs, including cannabis. While it does allow for the discussion of cannabis, it does not permit content that promotes the sale or use of cannabis. Instagram has similar policies, with a ban on the sale of cannabis and related products.
On the other hand, platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn have more lenient policies and generally allow for the discussion of cannabis as long as it is not used to promote illegal activity.
2. Use hashtags and keywords carefully.
Hashtags and keywords can be a great way to reach a wider audience and get your content seen by more people. However, they can also be a trigger for social media algorithms to flag your content as inappropriate or in violation of the platform's policies.
To avoid this, be sure to use hashtags and keywords that are relevant to your content, but avoid using terms that are likely to trigger a violation. For example, instead of using #weed or #marijuana, consider using more general terms like #cannabis or #hemp.
3. Use caution when promoting products or services.
If you're a cannabis business looking to promote your products or services on social media, it's important to be cautious. Many platforms have strict rules in place regarding the promotion of cannabis products, and it's important to follow these guidelines to avoid getting your content removed or your account suspended.
For example, on Facebook, you are not allowed to promote the sale of cannabis or related products, even if they are legal in your state or country. Instead, focus on promoting your business and the values it stands for, rather than specific products.
4. Be transparent and upfront about your content.
One of the biggest issues with social media censorship is that it can be difficult to know why your content was removed or why your account was suspended. To avoid this issue, be transparent and upfront about the nature of your content.
If you're posting content about cannabis, be sure to clearly state that it is for educational or informational purposes only, and not for the promotion of illegal activity. This can help to avoid any misunderstandings and ensure that your content is not removed or your account suspended.
5. Use alternative platforms.
If you're having difficulty getting your cannabis-related content seen on mainstream social media platforms, consider using alternative platforms that are more cannabis-friendly.
For example, platforms like MassRoots and HighThere! are specifically designed for the cannabis community and allow for the discussion and promotion of cannabis-related content. These platforms can be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and get your message out to a relevant audience. Berner, the CEO of Cookies, recently launched the “Social Club” app with the specific intention of battling cannabis censorship, however most of these platforms have a limited user base and equivalent reach.
While navigating social media channels as a Cannabis brand can be difficult, it is not impossible. There are currently multiple Cannabis brands, retail stores and distributors who are utilizing social media in unique and creative ways to reach their respective audience. Is it also important to have a social media presence established not just for your current customers, but to be positioned for the future when regulations and censorship eases and Cannabis finally is able to utilize advertising tools that is available to most other businesses.
