The North Star with Shaun King

The North Star with Shaun King

The Proposed Ban on Menthol Cigarettes Sparks a Debate Over How it Will Help and Harm the Black Community.

The FDA recently proposed a ban on menthol cigarettes, underlying the health risks it disproportionately causes Black Americans. Opponents of the ban are concerned it will criminalize Black smokers.

Donney Rose's avatar
Donney Rose
May 02, 2022
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Image credit: BBC/Getty Images


Kools. Newports. Marlboros. Black n Milds. Phillies.

It is commonplace to visit corner stores, liquor stores, ‘hood markets, etc. in predominantly Black neighborhoods and see a wide assortment of menthol-flavored cigarettes and flavored cigars. If you grew up Black, it is possible that someone in your family sent you to the …

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