Queer in Cannabis Screens Join the Club in New Jersey — Free & RSVP Now!
- BARCANNA
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
In partnership with AUM Films, Queer in Cannabis is thrilled to host an exclusive screening of the unreleased landmark documentary Join the Club—a compelling exploration of queer advocacy and cannabis activism that continues to resonate today.
📅 When: Friday, August 15, 2025 • 6 PM–10 PM
📍 Where: Cardinal Restaurant, 201 S New York Ave, Atlantic City, NJ
🎟️ Admission: Free — RSVP required via Eventbrite here
A Cinematic Journey Through Cannabis & Queer History
Directed by Kip Andersen and Chris O’Connell, Join the Club is a gripping 87-minute documentary that chronicles the life of Dennis Peron —also known as “Saint Dennis of San Francisco”—a charismatic gay activist, Vietnam vet and pot dealer-turned-legalization pioneer. After losing his lover to AIDS, Peron channeled his grief into launching the Cannabis Buyers’ Club, a five-story “underground” dispensary where medicine, drag shows, rainbow murals and community flourished. At its peak, the club served hundreds weekly, earning over $750,000 per week.
Against overwhelming odds and targeted law enforcement scrutiny—including a multi-million-dollar undercover investigation—Peron co-authored California’s Prop 215, the landmark medical cannabis initiative. Join the Club unpacks the intersection of queer activism, the AIDS crisis, and cannabis legalization—told through an intimate David-vs-Goliath narrative with righteous urgency.
This film unearths the untold queer history of cannabis legalization and serves as both tribute and rallying cry—charging the next generation to continue the movement. More info here
Rich Magaña & Queer in Cannabis
Rich Magaña, a native of California and lifelong cannabis enthusiast, officially founded Queer In Cannabis in 2022 as a passion project that combines his dedication to community, education, and activism. Before embarking on his journey in cannabis, Rich spent nearly 20 years as a fashion brand builder and beauty educator, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 changed the course of his career.
Like many Americans, Rich pivoted industries during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. Seeking stability, he found his path in the cannabis industry in Oklahoma and then in Massachussetts. Rich has represented some of the most innovative and inclusive cannabis companies (both national and homegrown) and has played a key role in launching several social equity brands across the U.S.
Drawing from his own experiences and expertise, Rich created Queer In Cannabis—a movement rooted in Pride, Education, Representation, Community, and Advocacy. This platform serves as a love letter to the LGBTQ+ legends and homegrown heroes who’ve overcome adversity to pave the way for the cannabis community as it exists today.
Event Highlights & Experience
This isn’t just a screening—it’s a fully immersive, cannabis-friendly experience:
Free screening of Join the Club
QIC Discussion Panel with Rich Magaña, the founder of Queer in Cannabis & Carter Feuerhelm, the editor of Join the Club.
Cannabis consumption–friendly environment
Brand activations from:
SELECT
GRASSROOTS
MPX
ANTHOLOGIE
JUST A WOMAN IN CANNABIS
CHEETAH
GRON
POUR PROS
JOIN THE CULTURE PROJECT
Barcanna Cannabis Experience Past attendees know Barcanna elevates the vibe—expect next-level experiences.
Silent auction benefiting Garden State Equality
(More details to be announced!)
🎟️ RSVP Info - Join the Club - Queer in Cannabis
This event is free, but space is limited—secure your spot by RSVPing on Eventbrite now:
Why You Should Join Us
Honor living history: Experience Dennis Peron’s legacy—a queer, AIDS-era activist at the heart of cannabis legalization
Build community: Join fellow queer+ individuals, allies, and advocates in a celebration of resistance and joy
Engage meaningfully: Enjoy curated cannabis experiences with top brands and Barcanna’s elevated service
Support justice: Your attendance, donations, serve LGBTQIA+ non-profits
RSVP, invite your friends, and prepare for an evening of remembrance, celebration, and forward momentum. Join the Club isn’t just a film—it’s an invitation to keep blazing trails and making change—together.
See you at Cardinal Restaurant, where history, community, and cannabis come to life.