Healthier Air For All Campaign: Now Serving Clean Air in New Orleans

Issue – Tobacco control advocates and local coalitions in New Orleans have been laying the groundwork to strengthen clean indoor air laws since early 2007, right after the implementation of the state’s Smoke-Free Air Act (Act 815), which eliminated smoking in all public places and restaurants. It, however, did not include bars and gaming establishments. Over the last eight years, emphasis has been placed on education, advocacy, sponsorships, events, and community engagement to lay the groundwork and prepare the city of New Orleans to adopt a smoke-free ordinance that would protect the health of all workers.

Description – The process involved in establishing the smoke free New Orleans ordinance included of the following strategies and activities:  education and advocacy efforts focused on coalition building, grassroots and community outreach, smoke-free awareness events, and advocacy/lobbying to battle the strong opposition from both the tobacco and gaming industries; media efforts included two campaigns – “Let’s Be Totally Clear” and “Healthier Air For All”, branding; and evaluation and research provided an evidence base and included the development and dissemination of data briefs to key stakeholders and decision makers.

Lessons Learned –The role of local champions, smoke-free coalitions and partnerships were instrumental in the success of a smoke-free  ordinance. Such factors of success included identifying and understanding (a) the local political climate, (b) the strategic approach taken to secure a comprehensive smoke-free ordinance, (c) the nature of opposition to the law, and (d) the range of tactics and interventions pursued by supporters of the law.  

Recommendations – Provide the audience with a detailed process to facilitate the success of a smoke-free ordinance highlighting such areas as: (1) an education and awareness focused media campaign, (2) collection of local data and research, (3) coalition engagement and outreach to workers, (4) legislator engagement and preparation, and (5) trust.