Although the prevalence of tobacco use has declined, not all populations are equally protected by the laws, policies, and resources that are intended to reduce tobacco-related harm. This is no coincidence: the tobacco industry strategically markets and targets its deadly products in underserved communities and as a result, certain groups are exposed to more point-of-sale advertising, live in places with a greater concentration of retailers that sell tobacco products, and have a higher prevalence of tobacco use. In addition, as was the case with George Floyd, tobacco-related incidents sparked police interventions that have caused senseless deaths.
It is urgent that we confront the targeting of communities by tobacco companies and the criminalization of commercial tobacco to promote racial equity and social justice.
The goal of the Virtual Health Equity and Social Justice Panel Discussion is to discuss and confront issues that will help guide the work of our subcommittee, and lead us towards justice.
