Hawaii Take Down Tobacco Day 2025

On March 19, 2025, the American Heart Association participated in the annual Hawaii Take Down Tobacco Day event. The event brought together over a hundred passionate advocates from the Hawaii Public Health Institute (HIPHI), American Heart Association, Aloha Care, Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaii, and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. The primary focus of the event was to advocate for raising the tobacco tax and eliminating the sale of flavored tobacco products.

Throughout the day, advocates held meetings with 50 legislators and their staff staff. The day included a press conference where Governor Green encouraged advocates to persevere, emphasizing the importance of their voices in shaping public policy. He reaffirmed his commitment the issues by promising to sign legislation if and when it reached his desk. Legislators responded positively, with many expressing support and committing to further discussions on the proposed policies.

The day was filled with inspiring stories and impactful moments. Nearly 100 teenage advocates, came out during their spring break to attend the event, they marched to the Capitol wearing bright pink shirts and waving homemade signs. The Governor and several lawmakers joined them for sign-waving, showing solidarity with the movement. Advocates were also recognized in both the House and Senate before heading off to meet with legislators in small groups.

The bill to raise the tobacco tax was heard in committee during Take Down Tobacco Day and successfully passed out of committee. A group of youth advocates who attended the event  had the opportunity to testify in support of the legislation. By speaking out and standing together, advocates are making a lasting impact on public health and the future of Hawaii.