Truth Initiative and NAACP Partner to Combat Tobacco Harm in Black Communities
Event summary
- Truth Initiative and NAACP announced a partnership on February 24, 2026, to address tobacco and nicotine addiction in Black communities.
- The collaboration aims to expand access to culturally relevant quit resources, including the EX Program developed with Mayo Clinic.
- Black Americans have a smoking prevalence of 11.7%, with 80% using menthol cigarettes, which are harder to quit.
- Over 17,000 Black Americans have enrolled in the EX Program since January 2025, with 4 million viewing the Outsmart Nicotine ad campaign.
The big picture
This partnership addresses the historical exploitation of Black communities by the tobacco industry, particularly through menthol marketing. It combines the NAACP's advocacy for racial and health equity with Truth Initiative's expertise in nicotine addiction cessation. The collaboration is part of a broader effort to address health inequities and empower marginalized communities through culturally relevant support.
What we're watching
- Program Effectiveness
- The impact of the EX Program and other culturally relevant resources on quit rates among Black Americans.
- Policy Advocacy
- The success of the partnership in advocating for stronger protections against menthol and flavored tobacco products.
- Community Engagement
- The level of participation in community discussions and educational workshops organized by the partnership.
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