DETROIT – In a bold move to address a pressing public health concern, DABO (Detroit Association of Black Organizations) is announcing its stance against the promotion of tobacco and menthol products within the Black community.
With a deep commitment to health equity and community well-being. DABO, lead by its CEO Horace Sheffield lll, in partnership with the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, continues to take proactive steps to combat the detrimental effects of tobacco and menthol marketing on Black individuals.
As the Detroit nonprofit organization celebrates more than four decades of community service, the issue of tobacco and menthol and its impact on Black lives will be front and center during DABO’s 45th Annual State of the RACE.
“DABO stands firmly against the exploitation of our communities by the tobacco industry,” said Horace Sheffield, CEO of DABO.
“For far too long, we have witnessed the insidious targeting of Black individuals through manipulative advertising tactics and predatory marketing strategies. This exploitation not only undermines the health and well-being of our community members but also exacerbates existing disparities in health outcomes.”
Tobacco use remains a significant public health issue, with disproportionate impacts on minority communities, particularly the Black community. CDC has indicated that approximately 93% of African Americans who smoke started with menthol cigarettes.
● Date: Saturday, April 20th, 2024
● Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
● Location: Dr. LaVonne M. Sheffield Bridge Center, 9928 Grand River Ave, Detroit Mi, 48204
Despite advancements in awareness and regulations, tobacco and menthol products continue to be aggressively marketed to Black consumers, perpetuating harmful health disparities and contributing to preventable illnesses such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory ailments.
“This is more than just a rally; it’s an ongoing dialogue with our community to reveal the tobacco industry’s insidious tactics aimed at ensnaring Black individuals into a lifetime of addiction,” said Minou Jones, Founder, and CEO of Making It Count, a DABO partner.
“For decades, the welfare of people has been overshadowed by profit. It’s high time we amplify our voices against this injustice.”
DABO’s 45th Annual STATE of the RACE takes place with a panel discussion joined by several community stakeholders and health experts on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 at then Dr. LaVonne M. Sheffield Bridge Center, at 12 noon. A press conference and rally kicks off at 11:30am.
The theme of this year’s event is Remembrance, Recognition, and Renewable Response.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact Andre Ash at [email protected] or via phone at (313) 900-1458.
About DABO:
DABO (Detroit Association of Black Organizations) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting health equity, social justice, and empowerment within Black communities. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, DABO strives to address systemic barriers and improve outcomes for marginalized populations, while partnering and advocating for and with other like-minded Black organizations.
