Our 2022 theme, Bold Awareness: A Fight to the Finish, encourages congregations, elected officials and communities to unite in the fight against the predatory marketing practices of addictive mentholated tobacco products in Black communities.

After a decades-long battle for health justice in tobacco control, we are embarking upon a major win. In 2022, we anticipate that the Food & Drug Administration will issue standard regulations that will prohibit the sale of tobacco products with any characterizing flavors like menthol.

While we expect total victory, we know we can also expect opposition from every side. That means we must prepare to fend off opponents. No longer will we stand for shallow arguments and the social systems that have perpetuated health disparities and kept tobacco use at status quo. Faith communities can secure support within their congregations by ensuring they understand the benefits of this needed policy change. We’ve got to be bolder and more confident than ever in our efforts to raise awareness. This will require fearless determination and final round of intensity. Together we will fight to the finish, and win!