Melrose High School Junior Leadership at Kick Butts Day

I’d like to recognize the leadership of Nathan Chow, a junior at Melrose High School. Chow is a member of the Melrose High School Youth Action Team, sponsored by the Melrose Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, and part of the Statewide Leadership Team of The 84 Movement. Along with approximately 175 youth and adults, he participated recently in Kick Butts Day; Youth Day of Action activities at the Massachusetts State House. Kick Butts Day is an annual event that highlights how youth fight the influence of the tobacco and vaping industries in their communities.

As part of the Statewide Leadership Team, Chow, addressed concerns to legislators, attended a spirited youth-led program, and learned about the important work of other chapters of The 84 Movement across the state. Chow met with Senator Cynthia Creem's office and Representative Adrian Madaro's office to express concerns about tobacco and vaping, emphasizing what he sees around him, youth mental health challenges, and particularly the root causes of health inequities like tobacco use and racism.

Through his participation on the Statewide Leadership Team of The 84 Movement, Nathan Chow and others around the Commonwealth are learning leadership, public speaking, and advocacy skills that will serve them throughout their lives. They’re taking action to fight tobacco industry tactics in their communities and create a healthier community for all of us. I couldn’t be prouder of them.