DJ Yearwood
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
2023 Barrie Fiske National Youth Advocate of the Year
Independence, MO
Darvius (DJ) grew up surrounded by family members who smoked. As a child, he would hide their cigarettes from them. He always knew he didn’t like tobacco, but his advocacy journey grew as he learned how the tobacco industry systematically targets vulnerable communities and creates deep-rooted health inequities. DJ developed a passion for youth advocacy across several issues, and he built strong relationships with policymakers in his community.
DJ worked with lawmakers to allocate $2.9 million toward Missouri’s tobacco prevention program. DJ’s advocacy was critical and he delivered a speech at the bill’s signing. DJ’s advocacy work also spans the country. He’s participated in panels, held town halls and even met with FDA officials to support the agency’s proposed ban on menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars. He was also an instrumental organizer in the successful referendum in California to end the sale of flavored tobacco products.