ABout #NMS
No Menthol Sunday is The Center for Black Health & Equity’s annual call to action to highlight the detrimental impact commercial menthol tobacco products have on Black communities. Every third Sunday in May, we engage faith and community leaders to educate congregants about smoking, vaping, and the role of new menthol products and other flavors in initiating tobacco addiction.
As we push for action in implementing the law to remove menthol from tobacco products, we continue to hold the government accountable for supporting organizations that provide culturally competent resources for those struggling with tobacco addiction. Regardless of changes by the current administration, we remain committed to our goal.
This year, we take the lessons of this passage to not dwell on what may or may not have come to pass and use our previous efforts to strengthen the journey ahead. Every day is the chance to move forward in making our communities safer for ourselves and future generations. Together, we can clear the way for optimal health.
No Menthol Sunday creates supportive spaces for community leaders to educate about the targeting of the tobacco industry and support those addicted to commercial tobacco products. By dispelling misinformation around the harms of tobacco, community leaders can educate and provide valuable resources to those starting their quit journeys.
Let’s embrace renewed efforts, new beginnings, and a tobacco-free future filled with clarity and precious moments.
- Menthol is a minty flavor that makes it easier to start smoking and harder to quit.
- The menthol issue is a social justice issue.
- The tobacco industry pays Black leaders to say that the removal of menthol from tobacco products would criminalize African Americans, but this is a lie.
- In December 2023, the White House delayed finalizing the removal of menthol from Tobacco products. However, delaying the removal of menthol from tobacco products upholds systemic racism.
