Over 200 Massachusetts’ youth and adult allies gathered from across the state to celebrate tobacco prevention accomplishments by youth at a summit run by the Massachusetts Youth Against Tobacco (MYAT). Leaders in the youth tobacco prevention movement also discussed new strategies for the uncertain year ahead, as state budget cuts loom.

At the event, youth shared stories about their work through a spoken word performance, a talk show and small group discussions. During a special awards ceremony, six youth leaders were recognized with the 2009 MYAT Regional Youth Leadership Award, and another leader was honored with the 2009 MYAT Statewide Youth Leadership Award. In the afternoon, youth talked with Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program officials about the state of the tobacco control budget, and worked together to find ways to stay motivated and involved in the MYAT movement.

The event was attended by state legislators including Representative Jim O'Day (Worcester), Representative Paul Frost (Oxford, Sutton, and Millbury), and Tom O’Neill, aide to Senator Michael Moore (Worcester, Auburn, Grafton, Leicester, Millbury, Shrewsbury and Upton). Representative O'Day honored The 84 statewide movement with a special citation.

MYAT is a Massachusetts Department of Public Health program run by Health Resources in Action.

« Return