Bernie Ellis’s “Green Friday” Protest Sparks Legal Trouble in New Mexico

Bernie Ellis, Known as the “Marijuana Martyr,” faces trouble again for giving away cannabis.

Bernie Ellis, a cannabis farmer and advocate for small growers, is in hot water with the state of New Mexico after giving away 25 pounds of marijuana in a protest against the difficulties faced by small-scale growers. The event, dubbed “Green Friday in Dixon,” was meant to draw attention to the struggles of small growers in the state.

Ellis, who has been a vocal critic of the cannabis industry’s big players, has been a fixture in the industry for nearly two decades. He was featured on the cover of the Nashville Scene in 2006, adorned with a crown of hemp leaves and a gritty expression.

Ellis moved to New Mexico in 2020, attracted by the state’s recreational marijuana laws and what he calls “reefer saneness.” However, his latest stunt has put him at odds with the state, and he is now facing potential legal consequences.

The event in Dixon was meant to be a peaceful protest, but it appears to have caught the attention of law enforcement. Ellis has been vocal about his disdain for the big players in the cannabis industry, and his actions are likely to continue to stir controversy.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, figures like Ellis will likely remain at the forefront of the debate. Whether he will be able to continue his advocacy work without running afoul of the law remains to be seen.