My name is Kharma Harmon, and I am a sophomore at Checotah High School who has been involved with Youth Action for Health Leadership (YAHL). Being part of YAHL has helped me understand how issues like tobacco use affect teens and families across Oklahoma. Through this program, I have learned about CounterAct Tobacco, a campaign that works to reduce the harm caused by tobacco products in our communities. In this blog, I want to talk about why policy matters and how strong tobacco policies can make a real difference in the lives of Oklahomans, especially young people like us.
Policy refers to the rules and laws that help keep people safe and healthy. Strong policies are important because they help prevent harmful products, like tobacco, from being easily accessible, especially to kids and teens. When policies are in place, they can protect communities, reduce health risks, and save lives. In Oklahoma, policies impact everyone by shaping what is allowed in stores, schools, and neighborhoods, which directly affects public health.
CounterAct Tobacco focuses on creating stronger rules around how tobacco products are sold, including comprehensive tobacco retail licensing. This means holding stores accountable and limiting how easily tobacco can be sold. I believe this policy could greatly improve public health in Oklahoma by reducing youth access to tobacco and lowering addiction rates.
Since joining YAHL, I have been involved in learning about these issues, speaking up, and understanding how advocacy can lead to real change. This work matters to me because I want my generation to grow up healthier and better informed. Working with YAHL has taught me that policy is powerful and that young people can have a voice in shaping their future. Other students can gain leadership skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how change happens by getting involved. People should support policy changes CounterAct Tobacco is fighting for because they help protect Oklahoma’s youth and build a healthier future for everyone.
By: Kharma Harmon, Checotah High School
