Brownie Mary
The Cannabis Grandma
By Meagan Chris
Screenshot from eBottles‘s video, ‘eBottles The Icons of Cannabis: Brownie Mary‘ (0:16)” youtube.com/watch?v=vnOfTWMi-_s
This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate the trailblazers, the rule-breakers, and the compassionate souls who've shaped our world. While her name might not be as widely recognized as some, Mary Jane Rathbun, better known as Brownie Mary, deserves a prominent place in the history books, especially when discussing cannabis activism and compassionate care.
Brownie Mary wasn't your typical activist. A grandmother with a warm smile and a talent for baking, she became a symbol of unwavering dedication to those suffering from the AIDS epidemic in San Francisco during the 1980s and 90s. Her weapon of choice? Pot brownies.
Who Was Brownie Mary?
Born in 1922, Mary Jane Rathbun’s life took a dramatic turn in her later years. A widowed waitress and mother, she became famous for baking and distributing cannabis-infused brownies to AIDS patients in California at San Francisco General Hospital. Her actions were not born of recklessness, but of deep empathy and a desire to alleviate suffering.
A Rebel with a Cause:
In the 1980s and 90s, the AIDS crisis ravaged communities, and effective treatments were scarce. Mary recognized the potential of cannabis to ease the debilitating symptoms experienced by patients, such as nausea, appetite loss, and chronic pain. Despite the legal risks, she baked her “magic brownies” and delivered them with unshakeable dedication.
Her acts of kindness led to multiple arrests, earning her the nickname, “Brownie Mary.” However, these arrests only amplified her message and she used her platform to advocate for the compassionate use of cannabis, challenging the prevailing stigma and legal restrictions.
“She changed the world one brownie at a time—baking hope, defying laws, and proving that compassion is the most powerful ingredient.”
More Than Just Brownies:
Brownie Mary’s impact extended far beyond her baked goods. She became a powerful voice in the growing medical cannabis movement. She worked tirelessly to educate the public and policymakers about the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, particularly for those suffering from life altering illnesses.
She also became a champion for AIDS patients, offering not just physical relief but also emotional support. Her presence was a beacon of hope in a time of fear and uncertainty. She volunteered at the Shanti Project, aiding AIDS patients.
A Legacy of Compassion:
Mary Jane Rathbun’s story is a testament to the power of one individual to make a difference. She defied societal norms and legal barriers, driven by compassion and a belief in the healing potential of cannabis. Her unwavering dedication paved the way for future advocates and helped shift public perception about medical cannabis.
This Women’s History Month, let us remember Brownie Mary not just for her brownies, but for her courage, her empathy, and her unwavering commitment to alleviating suffering. She reminds us that true activism comes from the heart, and that even the smallest acts of kindness can spark significant change. She was truly a woman who changed the world, one brownie at a time.
Meagan Chris
Co-Owner of CannaChris Consulting,
Meagan Chris is a passionate advocate for elevating the cannabis industry. With over 6 years of experience, including leadership roles and diverse consulting projects, Meagan specializes in cannabis education & training, business consulting, product development, and patient advocacy. She’s dedicated to improving patient outcomes and driving business success within the cannabis sector.
