Youth leaders from Northampton High School’s Youth for Equity and Action, a club sponsored by the Northampton Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), recently traveled to the Massachusetts State House to advocate for health equity and substance use prevention as part of ENUFF Day, a statewide day of action led by The 84 Movement. The 84 Movement represents the 84% of Massachusetts high school youth who did NOT smoke cigarettes when the movement began.
Youth groups in a school or community organization who want to fight against the tobacco and vaping industries sign up to become an 84 Chapter and be a part of the movement. Zoё Phillips-Santiago (12th), A’nylah Johnston (11th), Elian Ortiz-Viera (11th), and Leo Garcia (11th), accompanied by Northampton Youth Health Coalition Coordinator Kara McLaughlin, presented powerful Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), sharing how issues like mental health, school and community safety, connection, and equitable decision-making shape their lives and wellbeing.
During the visit, youth met with Representative Sabadosa and staff from Senator Comerford’s office, heard from Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, and joined peers from across Massachusetts for a rally and leadership training. They called for stronger investments in connection, restorative justice, and health education, highlighting the importance of prioritizing student wellbeing alongside academics. Their advocacy reflects the vital role young people play in shaping healthier, more equitable communities.
