The 84 Kicking Butts!

Almost 300 members of The 84 from across Massachusetts came out on March 23, 2011 to celebrate Kick Butts Day and fight against tobacco at the State House in Boston. Teens marched across the Boston Common to the State House chanting “We are The 84! We won’t take this anymore!” referring to the tobacco industry’s manipulative product advertising to youth. Other tobacco products (OTPs) are often sold individually making them cheaper and more accessible for youth to purchase. They also come in flavors like grape, chocolate, or vanilla and are packaged in colorful, shiny wrappers that appeal to children and teens. The 84 educated their state legislators about these marketing strategies and asked for their support in fighting against Big Tobacco. The day concluded with a public event at the State House with commentary from several state representatives and senators as well as public health commissioner, John Auerbach, and the recognition of 7 youth for their accomplishment for the year (Youth Leadership Awards). Congrats to all The 84 members who participated!

Read more about the Kick Butts Day.

Read about Youth Leadership Awards.