News and Events
We Are Not Lab Rats!
October 31, 2024
The Indian River Charter High School chapter of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) recently hosted its annual "Not a Lab Rat Day," an event aimed at empowering youth to stand against tobacco and e-cigarette companies. This statewide initiative, part of Florida's youth-led anti-tobacco movement, seeks to educate young people on the harmful effects of vaping and exposes the deceptive marketing tactics employed by the tobacco and e-cigarette industries.
Participants in the event engaged in activities to raise awareness. Their annual Not A Lab Rat Escape Room was a massive success, even having a waiting list to join in. This room educated, as well as taught families how to avoid becoming "lab rats" for the vaping industry. These messages are shared as part of a broader campaign to confront big tobacco companies with significant youth-targeted marketing investments. The initiative also highlights the parallels between historical tobacco advertising and modern e-cigarette campaigns, emphasizing the role of flavors and branding in targeting younger demographics.
The SWAT program in Indian River County provides students with leadership opportunities, community service experience, and a platform to advocate for policy changes like tobacco-free zones and reduced advertising. Events like "Not a Lab Rat Day" are integral to their mission to create a tobacco-free generation while challenging harmful social norms.
