The Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s latest business venture brought some “grass” to the reservation.
On April 20, the tribe welcomed Q’anápsu, a cannabis dispensary, to tribal land near La Center. In the Cowlitz language, the name means grass.
“Q’anápsu is more than just a dispensary. It is a reflection of our commitment to creating new opportunities that help serve our membership and our community,” Cowlitz General Council Chairwoman Patty Kinswa-Gaiser stated in a release. “As the Cowlitz Indian Tribe continues to diversify its economic base, Q’anápsu is yet another example of the high standard of excellence, responsible business practices, and innovation the tribe maintains when pursuing self-determination.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of Q’anápsu was attended by Q’anápsu board members and tribal members, customers, and guests from across the community.
Kinswa-Gaiser gave a tribal blessing during a walkthrough event for board members on April 7, the release stated. The blessing included “smudging” — burning sage to purify and cleanse the new space, “welcoming positive energy and promoting peace and healing,” the release stated.
Q’anápsu is built out of shipping containers, the release stated. It has features intended to educate customers on the Cowlitz Tribe’s history, culture, language, and broader role in the community.
It includes information on the use of hearty grasses befitting its name, as well as other traditional stories, artwork and translations.
The retail space was designed by Portland-based Gallagher and overseen by Karlee Eichenberger, a retail brand strategy expert specializing in cannabis operations, the release stated. Prior to the physical space opening, Q’anápsu operated out of a mobile building since last year.
“It has been a privilege to partner closely with the Cowlitz Tribe to develop the Q’anápsu brand strategy and unique immersive customer experience,” Eichenberger said. “The tribe has been committed from the beginning to build something groundbreaking that also provides meaningful benefit to its members and the community.”
Apart from providing jobs to tribal members and the community at large, Q’anápsu will provide another source of dedicated revenue for funding tribal programs and services like health care, education, housing and philanthropy, the release stated.
Q’anápsu is located at 31420 NW 31st Ave. in Ridgefield. It is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to midnight.
