Sway, Northalsted’s new cannabis dispensary, now open

Chicago, IL - Sway, Illinois' first LGBTQ+- and minority-owned weed dispensary, has officially opened its doors in Northalsted. The dispensary, located at 3340 N. Halsted St., occupies the former Town Hall Pub storefront, marking a significant milestone in the area’s history. Co-owned by cannabis policy advocate Edie Moore, entrepreneur Kevin Hauswirth, and LGBTQ+ activists Art Johnston and Jose Pepe Peña, Sway provides a welcoming and inclusive space for cannabis enthusiasts.

The dispensary’s name, Sway, reflects its mission to influence and move the community positively. Inside, the space is vibrant and colorful, echoing the LGBTQ+ Pride flag, with a unique “Wall of Heroes” in the lobby. This installation honors notable figures in LGBTQ+ rights and cannabis equity, such as Harvey Milk and Dennis Peron, highlighting the intertwined history of cannabis legalization and LGBTQ+ activism.

Sway’s opening is not just about selling cannabis; it’s a community-centric initiative aimed at increasing access to legal weed, particularly in neighborhoods disproportionately affected by its criminalization. As Moore emphasized, the goal is to extend Sway’s reach to underserved areas, starting with plans to open additional locations on Chicago’s South Side.

The dispensary also commits to sourcing products from minority- and women-owned businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs and promoting equity within the cannabis industry. This community-driven approach has garnered positive feedback and support from local residents and officials alike.

Since its grand opening, Sway has quickly become a cornerstone of Northalsted, contributing to the neighborhood’s rich cultural tapestry while championing social equity and inclusivity in the cannabis market.