In a groundbreaking development, Charlamagne tha God, Raekwon, civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers and architect Rachael H. Grochowski announced they are teaming up to breathe new life into downtown Newark's historic Four Corners with a Class V cannabis retail license from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC).

Co-founded by Raekwon the Chef of Wu-Tang Clan fame, Hashstoria is a brand collective focused on elite product quality, consumer experience and building communities through the power of cannabis. 

The project, led by Hashstoria, will restore a long-vacant building, initially operating as a dispensary in early 2024 before transforming into a consumption lounge later in the year. This endeavor is a significant step forward for both Hashstoria and the Newark community, aiming to create a cannabis retail environment that respects the city's history and culture while offering a safe space for consumers to explore their relationship with cannabis.

Bakari Sellers, known for his civil rights advocacy, shared his perspective on the transformative potential of this venture, saying, "We are excited to be working with the great city of Newark to safely and legally expand the cannabis industry in the city."

"The Hashstoria team is grateful to the Mayor's office and to the City Council for their collaboration and we will continue to work closely with them as we take the next steps in this amazing endeavor. We are extremely proud to become members of this great community and will strive daily to have a positive impact and help bring cannabis opportunities to a community that spent decades as targets of the failed War on Drugs,” he continued.

Rachael Grochowski, the renowned architect behind this ambitious project, expressed her enthusiasm for the venture's intricate design elements.

"I'm thrilled to apply my expertise in crafting a space that not only mirrors our collective vision but also optimizes the potential of every element. Design will play a pivotal role in shaping the comprehensive experience of our customers, from the very moment one enters. Our partnership with Hashstoria signifies an unwavering dedication to creating an environment that transcends conventional expectations, ushering the entire cannabis journey into a new realm of excellence," she said.

As this team looks to the future, they say they're excited to invite community members to join their ranks.

Image by Hashstoria