• Dance classes
  
• The Birds and the Bees talk
  
• Is breastfeeding that big of a deal?
  

Growing up I never bought into the hype that smoking cigarettes is addictive. Surrounded by friends who dabbled in other ‘recreational’ drugs, I thought THOSE were addictive, but held myself to a higher
standard because I only smoke cigarettes.

Fast forward 10 years and after a minor health issue complicated by asthma, my doctor advised me to quit smoking. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that quitting isn’t so easy. I struggled trying to quit on my own for months before I finally realized that I needed help. With my health at risk, I was forced to face reality. I had to quit smoking, but I couldn’t do it alone; I needed help.

During February our focus was on Black History Month, so I’d like to suggest that Blacks start a legacy to leave with our children that smoking is hazardous to your health, so don’t even start. We already have so many health disparities in our community, let’s work together to support each
other and eliminate those dangers that we can—for our children and ourselves. Quitting smoking costs nothing but time, commitment and a little support. Thankfully, I was able to find the help and support I needed through the Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network
(WAATPN).

For decades the tobacco industry has disproportionately targeted minority communities with intense advertising and promotional efforts. This strategy has taken a deadly toll on us. I would call upon the Black community to join with WAATPN to help leave a better legacy for our youth. Everywhere you look there are billboards and advertisements marketing tobacco products. Let’s demand that the tobacco industry dedicate more of these resources to helping our community stop smoking and making sure our young people don’t start.

Sincerely,
Herb Byers
Executive Director/CHW
2470 W. Locust Street
hbyers@hhhfc.org