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the Rising Voice of Youth: How One teenager’s Fight Against Tobacco is Inspiring a Generation
The fight against tobacco use is often framed as a public health battle waged by scientists and policymakers. However, a powerful new force is emerging: the voices of young people who have grown up witnessing the devastating effects of nicotine addiction firsthand. This is the story of one such advocate,and how her experience demonstrates the critical role youth play in shaping a healthier future.
From Shy Student to Congressional Advocate
Cutwright, a high school student, wasn’t always a confident public speaker. Her journey began with Raze, a youth-led anti-tobacco organization. Through Raze, she became deeply involved in advocating for stronger tobacco control measures.
This involvement led to an unexpected opportunity: speaking at a congressional briefing on federal funding for tobacco prevention and cessation. “I was a shy, timid person, and I spoke on a panel in Washington, D.C.,” Cutwright recalled, marveling at her own transformation. Observers noted the attentiveness of Republican staffers, diligently taking notes during her presentation.
witnessing the Impact of Budget cuts
Cutwright’s experience with Raze opened her eyes to the political realities of public health funding. She’s now keenly aware of how easily programs proven to be effective can be slashed. Now eligible to vote, she’s increasingly focused on the political process and the importance of advocating for policies that protect public health.
She questions the logic of cutting funding for programs like raze, which demonstrably improved community health. “If we know that these things are having a negative effect on our nation, our state, our community, our family, why wouldn’t we take steps to correct it?” she asks, directly addressing the reader.
The Power of Peer-to-Peer Influence
Cutwright understands a basic truth about influencing behavior: young people are more likely to listen to their peers. “The youth voice is always going to cut [through] more than a teacher or a parent,” she asserts.
This realization fuels her determination to continue the fight, even in the absence of Raze. She plans to restart the club at her school, aiming to pass on her knowledge and empower younger students to carry on the work. She recognizes that even uncomfortable conversations can have a lasting impact.
A moment of Validation
cutwright recalls a particularly rewarding moment: witnessing a classmate challenge a friend who was bragging about vaping. “I was like, ‘yes,'” she said, vividly describing her feeling of triumph. “It’s working.” This small victory underscored the power of consistent messaging and the potential for positive change.
Why Youth Advocacy Matters Now More Than Ever
The current landscape of tobacco control faces notable challenges.Recent cuts to the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health have been widely criticized as a major setback. Experts are calling these cuts “the greatest gift to the tobacco industry in the last half-century.”
In this context, the role of youth advocates like Cutwright is more crucial than ever. Their passion, energy, and direct connection to the issue can galvanize support for effective policies and inspire a new generation to take action.
Key Takeaways:
* Youth voices are powerful: Young people can effectively influence their peers and policymakers.
* Advocacy requires engagement: Becoming informed and involved in the political process is essential.
* Persistence is key: Even small actions can contribute to meaningful change.
* Funding matters: Investing in tobacco prevention and cessation programs is a critical public health priority.
This article’s coverage of chronic health issues is supported by a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Our financial supporters are not involved in any decisions about our journalism.
Resources:
* Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
* American association for Cancer Research (AACC) Policy and Advocacy
* CDC Office on Smoking and Health
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