Statement of Matthew L. Myers, President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. The Global Health Advocacy Incubator is a project of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

The killing of George Floyd under the knee of a white Minneapolis police officer has once again and all too vividly reminded us of the deep-seated racism that is far too pervasive throughout our country and our society – made worse by the lack of national leadership needed to unify the country and provide a sense of commitment, compassion and understanding to give hope that we will finally begin to address the root causes. And it comes as the grossly disproportionate impact of the coronavirus has once again shined a spotlight on the disparities and inequality that our African-American population faces.

We should not be surprised that it feels like these events are more than people can endure – and for good reason – or that we are all dealing with our own emotional response. We cannot begin to think we live in a just society unless these events, once and for all, lead to an honest and frank discussion of why the gulf continues to be so great, we have political leadership that unites us rather than pitting us against each other, and we make a sustained, sincere and deep commitment for change. It has been more than 50 years since Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and yet it keeps on happening.

The problems we face are everyone’s problem and we must all be part of the solution. As an organization and as individuals, we at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids want to express our commitment to do what we can to foster the needed dialogue and to be active participants in seeking solutions.

Latest News

Barbados School Nutrition Policy Webinar Banner 2
November 21, 2023
How One Small Island Partner Secured a Big Advocacy Win

How did the country of Barbados adopt a national School Nutrition Policy win in just four years? It is in large part thanks to the tireless advocacy work of th…

Colombia Courthouse Protest
November 15, 2023
Sweet Success: How Colombia's Landmark Sugary Beverage Tax Rose Above Legal Challenges

The Colombian Constitutional Court delivered a groundbreaking decision last month by unanimously declaring the tax on sugary drinks constitutional. With the …

Derecho comercio y etiquetado nutricional Photo
November 13, 2023
Law, Trade and Nutritional Labeling: A Valuable Resource for Advocates and Public Health Professionals

A book coedited by the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) provides public health advocates with critical information to defend front-of-package labeling…