Originally Posted by
DC2 
What worries me is not enough people being worried enough to do something.
This is my concern also ! Whatever happens, I don't think we'll be left alone to vape in peace.
This is an important discussion that needs to be had more often on this forum.
Demographics at work.
Non-smokers outnumber smokers. Thus non-smokers can bully smokers. This explains the legislative persecution and societal marginalizing of smokers in general. Since smoking is now seen as a disgusting habit by John Q Public it's ok to do this. Not that we tolerate other forms of discrimination well. It's just that we can wrap this up in cellophane labeled "Public Health".
Take that minority and create a minority within it.
Vapers are not a significantly large enough percentage of "smokers" for BT to invest money in. Instead, due to the small size of the population it is more cost effective to eliminate the sources and then "welcome" us back with open arms.
Your local crook-in-the-box (aka politicians) doesn't see vapers as a special interest that will help him/her get reelected. Instead, by not opposing legislation that negates my right to vape, the pol can point to the majority and tell them that they are being protected. That he can do this with little or no effort/time expended on his part is a bonus. How often can you openly discriminate against a minority and get away with it?
Things we need to do:
1.
Separate ourselves from "Smokers" by showing the physical difference between the two groups paraphenalia. The way to do this is to show off the equipment and talk about it to your friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Be sure to target actual smokers. On this forum we are preaching to the choir. Now it's time to take it to the streets. The PV's that are not modeled to look like cigarettes could be an advantage in this talking point btw.
2.
Separate ourselves from "Smokers" by discussing the health benefits. Even without studies you can still talk it up. Are you gaining weight? Is your appetite improving? Are your taste buds changing? Can you jog without coughing up a lung? The topics are endless. Targets here include active smokers, and former smokers for the most part. The former might be motivated by your story. The latter will see the intrinsic truth of your personal account since they went through it. Both groups might actually be interested in vaping as a recreational choice...
3.
Separate ourselves from "Smokers" by demonstrating that the aesthetic stigma no longer applies. I've had great success by looking a rabid anti-smoker in the eye and asking "Do I smell like an ashtray"? The point here is to be an example of a normal person who happens to have a neat little gadget. You, your car, your clothing, your workspace, and your personal space don't smell like Marlboro Country.
4.
Spread the word. If you have a personal web space, I have a blog for example, then use it to drive the points home. When it comes to overcoming apathy repetition = recognition.
Just my two cents of course.
