The Center for Black Health and Equity, a nationally recognized public health organization focused on issues affecting African American populations, renewed its call to action following “No Menthol Sunday,” continuing efforts to combat the harmful effects of menthol tobacco products on Black communities.
Everything to know about ‘No Menthol Sunday?
Serving as a platform for nationwide public awareness, No Menthol Sunday has grown into a community education and outreach initiative developed by the organization in 2014, according to its website.
Through partnerships with local clergy and congregations, the initiative works to expand faith-based education efforts. Every third Sunday in May, the organization engages faith and community leaders to educate congregants about smoking, vaping, and the role of menthol products and other flavored tobacco in initiating addiction.
According to the American Lung Association, nearly 14.4 million people smoke menthol cigarettes. Flavored tobacco products, including menthol, are one of the primary reasons children start using tobacco.
Its expansion has helped advance efforts to eliminate menthol from tobacco products and strengthen accountability for government support of culturally competent cessation resources. The Center emphasizes its role in leading sustained, community-driven change.
More than 35 states have participated in ‘No Menthol Sunday’
The Center for Black Health and Equity has spread across 35 states, with organizations and churches participating in No Menthol Sunday. According to KMTV, more than a dozen churches in North Omaha, Nebraska, took part in the campaign that raised awareness about menthol cigarettes and tobacco amongst minorities in their own communities.
In 2024, 1 in 4 Nebraska adults smoked menthol cigarettes, according to the American Lung Association. Erin Smith, the Health Promotion Manager for the organization, discussed the effects of cigarettes and explained how menthol is added to these products for a smoother smoking experience.
“Traditionally, tobacco in cigarettes can be quite harsh. So the menthol that is added to cigarettes in particular, makes it a little bit more soothing,” she told KMTV.