Jefferson said that those who want to embrace marijuana as a business and social justice step should be aware a stigma that remains attached to pot in many people will need to be fought.

He suggested using published and verifiable articles in making arguments, stay up to date on local marijuana news, bring information to the attention of local officials and do your research, he said.

For example, it might be helpful to know that a planning board in a particular city has a view on pot that differs from the city council, he said.

“And keep that conversation going,” Jefferson said.