TGB Passes Resolution Recognizing Cannabis as Indigenous Medicine

By Joe Morey

News Editor

At their weekly meeting on November 18, 2024, the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board (TGB) has unanimously passed Resolution 2024-112, officially recognizing cannabis as an indigenous medicine. The resolution was approved by a 6-0-0 vote affirming the medicinal properties of cannabis and its longstanding use in indigenous communities.

The resolution provides a formal definition of marijuana, drawing on both historical and scientific evidence to support its medicinal value. Tribal cannabis consultant Thi Le emphasized the deep-rooted history of cannabis as a therapeutic substance.

"Cannabis has been documented as medicine for thousands of years," Le stated. "Scientific evidence supports its medicinal use, and it’s recognized by tens of thousands of doctors. Currently, there are more than six million patients in the U.S. who rely on medicinal marijuana for treatment."

Resolution 2024-112 outlines cannabis’s extensive medicinal applications, citing research that supports its effectiveness in managing chronic pain, neurological diseases, multiple sclerosis, cancer care, nausea, and opioid reduction. The resolution also acknowledges endorsements from prominent medical and public health organizations, including the American College of Physicians, the American Nurses Association, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Bill Trepanier, LCO Secretary-Treasurer and the TGB member leading the charge to create an LCO cannabis program, speaking on the cultural significance of the resolution, noted that while cannabis may not be considered a traditional medicine in the same way as other tribal remedies, it remains an inherently indigenous medicine.

"Cannabis has been used by indigenous people for thousands of years," Trepanier said.

The resolution further acknowledges that cannabis, in all its forms—including both marijuana and hemp—holds medicinal properties. It affirms the Tribe’s commitment to protecting indigenous access to cannabis as a sacred and therapeutic resource.

By passing Resolution 2024-112, the LCO Tribal Governing Board joins a growing number of indigenous nations recognizing cannabis as a legitimate medicinal plant. This decision may lay the foundation for future discussions on cannabis policies within the tribe, potentially influencing access, regulation, and integration into healthcare practices for LCO members.