In 1995 , internal communications by RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company ( RJR ) revealed plans to sell cigarettes in areas of San Francisco with high numbers of LGBT people . The scheme caused huge controversy , not only for its methods but also for the name ‘ Project SCUM ’, which was supposedly an abbreviation of ‘ subculture marketing scheme ’. Kathleen DeBold , director of the Mautner Project for Lesbians with Cancer , said at the time :
Acknowledging the massive presence of Big Tobacco at Pride , LGBTQ community centres across Michigan joined forced this year in implementing a smoke-free Pride policy – a major step towards untangling tobacco from the LGBTQ experience . Chris Lauckner , board chair of Perceptions , said : “ One goal in making the event smoke-free is to send the message that we are proud enough to respect the health of all people .” While the US hasn ’ t been hugely accepting of vaping as a safer alternative to smoking , one UK e-cigarette manufacturer has opened the conversation about undoing the harms caused by Big Tobacco at LGBTQ events . Blu eCigs sponsored this year ’ s Brighton Pride , engaging with current and potential vapers with their own fl oat , numerous stands and a ‘ vaping dating game show ’.
“ With the new EUPTD restrictions in place , finding the right platforms to connect the Blu brand with consumers is key . Our sponsorship of Brighton Pride 2017 allowed us to engage with adult smokers and vapers , keeping brand awareness high using an engaging and relevant event to capture their attention .” Pride ’ s willingness to welcome e-cigarettes suggests that it sees vaping as an ally in the fight against harmful tobacco . Hopefully this will help pave the way to help the high number of LGBTQ smokers ditch tobacco for good .
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