PSA: Kick Buts Day

Next week, kids in the Twin Cities are taking a stand against tobacco as part of Kick Butts Day, an annual celebration of youth leadership and activism in the fight against tobacco use, when youth across the country encourage their peers to stay tobacco-free and educate their communities about the dangers of tobacco. 

 

In Minnesota, tobacco use claims 5,500 lives and costs $2 billion in health care bills each year. Currently, 18.1 percent of the state’s high school students smoke. Minnesota health advocates are working to significantly increase the state cigarette tax.

 

·         On Saturday, March 23, Asian Media Access in Minneapolis will take youth members on a “point of service” hunt to identify tobacco advertisements aimed at children. The event begins at Washburn Oaks Park and will end on Nicollet Avenue. Time: 9 AM. Location: 200 E. 24^th Street, Minneapolis. Contact: Khou Yang (651) 387-3766.

 

·         On Sunday, March 24, the McDonough Community Center in St. Paul will take youth members to Creative Arts Magnet School to spray-paint tobacco facts on a hill, which will be visible from U.S. Route 35. Time: 9 AM. Location: 1544 Timberlake Road, St. Paul. Contact: Khou Yang (651) 387-3766.

Other events will be taking place around the nation; check the website to find events near you.