Tobacco-Free Living Summit set for January 30
Event to focus on tobacco’s impact on the Black community
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 29, 2025
LAS VEGAS — The Southern Nevada Health District is highlighting the 2nd Annual Tobacco-Free Living Summit, which will address the detrimental effects of tobacco use within the Black community. Hosted by Because We Matter, the event will take place Thursday, January 30, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Pearson Community Center, located at 1625 W. Carey Ave., North Las Vegas, NV 89032.
This free, public event will focus on the impact of tobacco use among African Americans, featuring experts and community leaders who will discuss key issues such as the youth vaping crisis, flavored tobacco products, tobacco control policies and available cessation resources. Held just prior to the start of Black History Month, the summit will examine the effects of smoking on the community and share strategies for reducing tobacco use.
Dr. Cassius Lockett, Deputy District Health Officer-Operations, will deliver opening remarks. The keynote speakers are:
- DJ Yearwood, 2023 Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Youth Advocate of the Year
Topic: Youth Vaping and Flavored-Tobacco Products
- Dr. Karen Beard, Amplify African American Statewide Coordinating Center
Topic: Tobacco Cessation
- Kendra Edwards, American Heart Association, Las Vegas Division
Topic: Tobacco Control Policies
Also featured at the event will be a panel discussion on summit topics by local faith-based leaders:
- Rev. Dr. Kelcey West, Pastor, Nehemiah Ministries Christian Church
- Rev. Dr. Karen Anderson, Pastor, First African Methodist Episcopal Church
- Elder Ender Austin II, Faith Leader, Bethesda Church of God in Christ
- FNP Cheryl Sherfield, Faith Leader, Living Word Church LV
Because We Matter, an initiative of the Health District’s Tobacco Control Program, is a smoking and vaping prevention initiative for African Americans in Clark County. Its mission is to raise awareness, provide education, offer cessation resources, and promote a smoke-and-vape-free lifestyle.
To register for the Summit, visit 2025 Tobacco-Free Living Summit Registration. For more information about Because We Matter, visit https://www.becausewematterlv.org/.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.