Brittney Griner Pulls Out of Women Grow Leadership Summit After Disturbing Incident

Brittney Griner, known not just for her accomplishments as a WNBA player but also for her resilience as a former Russian detainee, was expected to be a key speaker at the Women Grow Leadership Summit. The event, held to empower women within the cannabis industry, took a stunning turn when Griner announced that she would not speak due to receiving an unsettling and anonymous note left in her hotel room.

Women Grow is a leading initiative aimed at creating an inclusive and thriving cannabis ecosystem. The Leadership Summit focuses on cannabis legalization, entrepreneurship, and career development—all vital issues for a forward-thinking industry. Griner’s presence was highly anticipated, given her recent challenges and her emergence as a strong advocate for marginalized voices.

However, her decision to withdraw after the incident highlights a darker reality. According to event organizers, Griner discovered the note in her hotel room prior to her scheduled appearance. While the specifics of the message remain undisclosed, the nature of it was disturbing enough for her to cancel her engagement.

Dr. Chanda Macias Addresses the Audience  

Facing a disappointed but understanding audience, event organizer Dr. Chanda Macias addressed the situation with a powerful and unyielding message. “We are here to uplift and protect one another, especially in a space where women and cannabis intersect,” she emphasized. Macias, a dedicated advocate for cannabis patients, encouraged solidarity among leaders in attendance and drew attention to the harassment Griner faced.

Dr. Macias also posed an ominous question to the audience, asking whether the incident was part of a larger pattern of targeting activists and advocates within the cannabis movement. “Are we witnessing the resurgence of a war on cannabis that includes threatening the people fighting for this revolution?” Her words struck a chord, highlighting growing concerns about safety and resistance in the industry.

The Broader Implications  

The incident raises critical questions about the treatment of female leaders in spaces traditionally dominated by men, as well as the risks involved in challenging deep-seated societal norms—whether it be through cannabis advocacy, LGBTQ+ activism, or racial justice. Griner, who already knows firsthand the devastating consequences of systemic oppression, should have been able to step into this space with the confidence and safety that all women leaders deserve. Instead, she was met with hostility masked as anonymity.

The cannabis community, already thriving despite legal and cultural barriers, has shown incredible resilience—but disturbing incidents like this remind us of the uphill battle it continues to fight. Brittney Griner’s decision to prioritize her safety should not diminish the importance of her voice in the movement, but rather remind us of the toxicity that often comes with groundbreaking change.

What Now?  

While Griner was unable to speak, her silence speaks volumes. It’s a stark reminder of the continued need to push for an inclusive and safe environment within not only the cannabis industry but all movements for change. Women Grow, known for fostering dialogue and leadership among women, made it clear that this incident would not derail its mission.

For the audience at the event and readers now, the takeaway is pivotal. Advocacy—whether for cannabis, LGBTQ+ individuals, or racial equity—isn’t just about showcasing triumphs. It’s about braving the challenges, threats, and systemic barriers that come with them. This is where we ask ourselves hard questions, just as Dr. Macias did on that stage. How can the industry protect its trailblazers as they take on the risks of advocacy in a society resistant to progress?

For Brittney Griner and everyone she represents, there’s collective work to do. The Women Grow Summit may have missed her insight this time, but her experience has nonetheless sparked a conversation that cannot be ignored.

"Our Stories Matter," and defending those who tell them is not optional—it’s essential. Women Grow, with its commitment to equity and empowerment, is continuously leading the charge in this regard. To the industry as a whole, let this be a collective call to action. Let us continue to uplift and protect one another as we make history together. There’s still much progress to be made, but with strong leaders like Brittney Griner at the forefront, we can face any challenge and come out stronger on the other side. It's time for all of us to work towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment within the cannabis industry and beyond. Our voices matter, our experiences matter, and it's up to all of us to ensure they are heard and protected.