Taking Back Our Breath: Community Initiative Fights for Smoke-Free Homes and Fresh Air

For decades, Black communities have disproportionately borne the brunt of tobacco companies’ predatory marketing and the health consequences that follow. Now, a new initiative is putting the power in the hands of residents to create smoke-free havens in their own neighborhoods. The “Taking Back Our Breath” campaign, spearheaded by local health advocates in partnership with Saving Our Legacy African Americans for Smoke-free Safe Places (SOL Project), aims to empower residents of unincorporated Sacramento County to advocate for smoke-free multi-unit housing and outdoor air protections. This is crucial as, unlike many cities, the county currently lacks regulations that guarantee smoke-free living spaces or protect residents from secondhand smoke exposure in outdoor areas. Dr. J. Bianca Roberts, Family Physician in Sacramento, says “Studies show that secondhand smoke is just as dangerous as direct smoking, leading to lung cancer, heart disease, and asthma attacks, especially in children.” The campaign highlights a surprising fact: a recent survey found that a whopping 75% of Sacramento County residents, including a strong majority in Black communities, support smoke-free housing and outdoor air laws. This disconnect between public opinion and policy underscores the need for resident voices to be heard. “They’re targeting our youth with flavored vapes and...