Growing up as a little girl, I had the privilege of witnessing my mother’s devoted care for the elderly women in our extended family. At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the significance of her actions, but as I matured, this became clearer. Though these women were not always immediate relatives but rather extended cousins and aunts, my mother’s commitment to their well-being made a profound impression on me. Now, at 36 years old, I recognize the timeless wisdom behind my mother’s actions. She intuitively understood the importance of honoring and supporting the elders who had played an integral role in preserving the essence of our family.
During the 16th annual Horizon’s conference, I had a chance encounter with Norma Lotsof, thanks to a dear colleague and friend who invited me to accompany him to pick her up with some others from the conference. Before this, I knew very little about Norma, but I welcomed the opportunity to meet another Black woman in the psychedelic space. As Norma emerged from her home, there was something tender and endearing about her. I was a bit away in proximity from her but she asked me to come closer to shake her hand which I did, and at that moment I felt a sense of connection.
During our ride back to the city, Norma shared some of her story with us. She spoke of her non-profit work with ibogaine research in the 60’s to support the treatment of opioid addiction, recounting the challenges of fundraising and the eventual transition to a for-profit model due to financial constraints. “I couldn’t understand how people could spend $250,000 a night gambling but couldn’t contribute towards a potential medicine that could save someone’s life.” But unfortunately, that’s not where her story ends. She then goes on to recount the experience in which a researcher who was working for the for-profit company breached a signed contract which inevitably led to a lawsuit and eventually the crumble of the company. After hearing this, the energy in the car shifted, and we all sat in silence for a bit. Her story resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the countless Black and Brown women whose contributions to the psychedelic community often get exploited and inevitably go unrecognized and uncompensated.
For me, Norma’s experience paralleled that of Maria Sabina, shedding light on the systemic injustices faced by black and brown communities, especially black and brown women. I couldn’t help but reflect on the disparities in recognition and support, particularly evident in the inadequate response to the 2023 GoFundMe campaign organized for Norma’s financial struggles. I couldn’t help but think, would there be a different response if Norma was of the dominant culture or if she presented as a man?
As I write this, I am grateful for the opportunity to have met Norma and to share some of her story but also highlight the continued shadow of the psychedelic community as it relates to race and exploitation. Later that evening, Norma gladly accepted an invitation to attend an event hosted by Roots to Fruit (An all-black and brown organization committed to the empowerment and support of Black and Brown healers and practitioners in the psychedelic space) which was a testament to her impact, even if the world may not fully acknowledge it. We honored Norma in a way that felt sacred and just, recognizing her contributions to our community.
So as I conclude, I want to thank my mother for modeling the embodiment of taking care of the elders not just in our family but also in the community. And in the face of uncertainty, I find solace in knowing that one day, Norma will become an ancestor. It is an honor to have met her before she embarks on her next journey to the ancestral plane. To the ancestors, I say, “Thank you and Ase’.
With gratitude,
Can
