New York Cannabis Officials Host ‘Listen and Learn’ Event to Support Parents and Teens
ROCHESTER, NY — As New York’s legal cannabis market continues to evolve, state officials are making sure families stay informed. The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) recently hosted a “Listen and Learn” event aimed at educating parents, caregivers, and teens about marijuana, safety, and effective communication in today’s social landscape.
A Safe Space for Honest Dialogue
The event brought together parents, youth advocates, and community leaders to share experiences and gather trustworthy information about cannabis and related tools. Among the attendees was Kendra Smallwood, a parent of teenagers who found the resources extremely helpful.
“I just found out today that they have fentanyl testers,” she shared. “Having access to tools and real info helps me have better conversations with my kids.”
Smallwood emphasized how important it is to understand what children are exposed to online, saying, “It’s not just about weed — it’s about peer pressure, social media, and how kids make decisions.”
Helping Communities Understand the Law
As cannabis legalization continues to develop in New York, so do public education efforts. Lila Hunt, deputy director of public health and education at OCM, spoke about how the laws are new for many families.
“We have a new law that’s different,” Hunt explained. “People need to know what that means for them. So we’re starting our journey by hearing from the community — what they want to know, and how we can meet them where they are.”
Education and Destigmatization in Action
Community organization Bloom Roc also played a role in the event. Vice President Chad Anderson said the goal is to build programs around what people need.
“They’re developing our market based on what they’re hearing,” he said. “That means more education, less stigma, and smarter choices.”
By hearing directly from families, Bloom Roc and OCM are hoping to create materials that don’t just explain the rules — but actually help teens and adults talk to each other openly about cannabis.
Creating a Healthier Dialogue Around Cannabis
The “Listen and Learn” series is just one of many steps the NYS Office of Cannabis Management is taking to support responsible cannabis education. By working directly with communities, the initiative ensures that families have access to clear, current, and supportive information — no fear tactics, just facts.
Whether it’s talking about laws, health risks, or social pressures, events like these are helping build a future where cannabis conversations are safer, smarter, and more supportive for everyone involved.