Abdullah Akl, a Muslim American youth leader in New York City. This is spearheading a campaign to lobby against the tobacco industry. With the rising number of young Muslims falling prey to tobacco use. Akl believes it’s time to take action and create a healthier future for his community. Follow Akl’s journey as he lobbies against the tobacco industry and raises awareness about the dangers of smoking. Join his efforts as Abdullah Akl lobbies against the tobacco industry.
As The Director of Public Affairs and Civic Engagement for the Muslim American Society. Akl has been raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use among young Muslims through social media and community events. He has been urging young people to speak out against the tobacco industry.
Akl’s campaign has gained significant traction, with many young Muslims in New York City and nationwide joining his efforts. They use social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use. To encourage their peers to join the fight against the tobacco industry.
Abdullah Akl Speaks at NY State Capitol in Support of Banning Flavored Tobacco Products
At the capital on March 13th, 2023, healthcare advocacy groups gathered to support Governor Hochul’s proposal. That is to ban flavored cigarettes and tobacco products. Including menthol cigarettes. In recent coverage by WTen, Abdullah Akl spoke at a press conference. With the Tobacco Kills NY Colation at the NY State Capitol. Alongside advocates, leaders, and public health champions, to rally to support ending flavored tobacco sales. Flavored tobacco is rampant in minorities and underage children. As well as communities of color, can create a significant healthcare disparity and is proven to shorten lives.
Akl spoke at the Capital:
“The question is, will we prioritize our youth and our future generation? Or will we leave it to big tobacco and their money to run our future?”
A recent poll from Sienna College resulted in most New Yorkers supporting the ban. Resulting in 57% in favor and 35% against it.
Akl’s campaign is rooted in his belief that the tobacco industry deliberately targets young people. Especially those from minority communities with aggressive marketing tactics. He argues that the industry uses tactics such as sponsoring events and advertising in communities of color. All of this is to lure young people into using tobacco products.\
Abdullah Akl Lobbies Against Tobacco Industry for Targeting Minority Communities.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking rates among young adults aged 18-24 are significantly higher among racial and ethnic minority groups than non-Hispanic whites. In addition, studies have shown that tobacco companies have targeted minority communities with their marketing efforts for decades.
Akl believes that the tobacco industry’s tactics are not only unethical but also harmful to the health of young people. He argues that tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death and that young people should be encouraged to lead healthy lifestyles free from addiction.
Akl’s campaign has also received support from other Muslim leaders and organizations. The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) has stated support of Akl’s efforts, stating that the tobacco industry’s tactics are “unacceptable” and that young Muslims should be empowered to resist them.
In addition, many mosques and Islamic centers across the country have been promoting Akl’s campaign and urging young people to get involved. They have been using their platforms to raise awareness about tobacco use’s dangers and encourage their congregations to take action.
Abdullah Akl Lobbies Against Tobacco Industry, Gains Support from Muslim Leaders and Organizations
Akl’s campaign is a powerful example of the impact that young people can have when they come together to fight for a cause. His efforts are raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and empowering young people to take action and make a difference in their communities.
As the campaign continues to gain momentum, it is clear that Akl and his supporters are not backing down. They are determined to hold the tobacco industry accountable for its harmful practices and to create a healthier and safer future for young people in America.
Abdullah Akl’s campaign against the tobacco industry is a powerful example of the impact that young people can have when they come together to fight for a cause. Akl’s efforts are raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and empowering young people to take action and make a difference in their communities. His campaign has received significant support from Muslim leaders and organizations, as well as from mosques and Islamic centers across the country. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, it is clear that Akl and his supporters are determined to hold the tobacco industry accountable for its harmful practices and to create a healthier and safer future for young people in America.
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