Niagara Falls, NY, April 1, 2026 — In recognition of Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action and Minority Health Month, Niagara Falls City Councilmembers have issued a public declaration calling for the elimination of flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes, within the city.
City leaders say the effort targets persistent health disparities driven by the tobacco industry’s long-standing marketing in communities of color and low-income neighborhoods. In Niagara County, about one in five adults smoke, well above the New York State average, underscoring the urgency of local action. Public health experts point to menthol products as a key driver of these disparities Council Chairman Brian Archie emphasized, “Addressing the disproportionate impact of menthol and flavored tobacco is essential to advancing health equity in Niagara Falls.”
The declaration follows a recent briefing by Dr. Phil Gardiner of the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council, highlighting how targeted marketing has contributed to higher rates of tobacco use, disease, and death in African American communities
“Love Canal taught us that when a community faces serious harm, leaders must act,” said Councilmember Bridgette Myles. “Flavored tobacco and menthol cigarettes are a modern public health threat disproportionately impacting Black and Brown residents.”
Legislator Jeffrey Elder added, “This is not just a public health issue, it’s a matter of justice. Our young people deserve to grow up free from predatory marketing, and we must act now to protect future generations.”
Stan Martin Consulting, LLC, (SMC) the anchor organization of the No Menthol Buffalo movement, encourages community members, and faith leaders to join the April 1 Take Down Tobacco Day call to action, and support efforts to reduce tobacco-related disparities across Western New York.  “I love the idea of a No Menthol Niagara Falls”. We’re building a movement to save lives in our region and that’s exciting”, said Stan Martin, founder and CEO of SMC.