After a recent court decision rejected an attempt to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos, a group of casino workers has taken matters into their own hands by launching an aggressive advertising campaign to push for a smoke-free environment.
The decision to uphold the current smoking policy in casinos has sparked outrage among many employees who are subjected to secondhand smoke on a daily basis. In response, a coalition of workers from various casinos in the area have come together to form the Atlantic City Casino Workers for a Smoke-Free Environment (ACW-SFE).
The group, comprised of dealers, servers, and other staff members, has launched a series of print and digital advertisements highlighting the dangers of secondhand smoke and the importance of creating a healthier work environment. The ads feature testimonials from workers who have experienced negative health effects from exposure to smoke in the workplace.
“We deserve to have a safe and healthy work environment,” said Sara Johnson, a dealer at a popular casino on the boardwalk. “We shouldn’t have to choose between our livelihoods and our health. It’s time for us to take a stand and demand change.”
The ad blitz comes on the heels of a recent survey conducted by the ACW-SFE, which found that a majority of casino workers support a smoke-free environment. The group is also calling on casino owners and management to take action and implement policies that prioritize the health and well-being of their employees.
“Nobody should have to compromise their health for the sake of their job,” said Mark Thompson, a spokesperson for the ACW-SFE. “We’re calling on casino owners to do the right thing and protect the health of their workers by banning smoking once and for all.”
In addition to the advertising campaign, the ACW-SFE is also planning a series of rallies and protests outside of various casinos in Atlantic City to raise awareness about the issue. The group hopes to garner support from both the public and policymakers to push for a smoke-free environment in all Atlantic City casinos.
While the battle for a smoke-free workplace in Atlantic City continues, the ACW-SFE remains committed to fighting for the rights and well-being of casino workers. With their voices growing stronger and louder, it seems only a matter of time before their efforts result in meaningful change.
