In a groundbreaking move to protect the health of children in Atlantic City, a group of young activists have launched a new video campaign urging local casinos to adopt smoke-free policies. The initiative, which is spearheaded by a coalition of youth organizations and community groups, aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of secondhand smoke on children and advocate for a healthier environment in the city’s casinos.
The videos feature testimonials from children who have been exposed to secondhand smoke in casinos, highlighting the negative impact it has had on their health and well-being. From respiratory problems to increased risk of asthma attacks, the young speakers paint a vivid picture of the dangers that tobacco smoke poses to young visitors and employees in Atlantic City’s gaming establishments.
One particularly moving video features 12-year-old Sarah, who recounts her experience of visiting a casino with her family and feeling physically ill due to the overwhelming presence of smoke in the air. “I couldn’t enjoy my time there because I was constantly coughing and struggling to breathe,” she says. “I want casinos to be places where kids like me can have fun without worrying about getting sick.”
The campaign comes at a critical time for Atlantic City, as the city continues to grapple with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With tourism levels on the rise and casinos looking to attract more visitors, the organizers of the campaign argue that now is the perfect opportunity for local gaming establishments to prioritize the health and well-being of children and families.
“We believe that every child has the right to breathe clean air, free from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke,” says Maria, a 14-year-old activist involved in the campaign. “By adopting smoke-free policies, casinos can show that they care about the health of their youngest patrons and create a safer environment for everyone.”
The videos have already garnered attention on social media, with many viewers expressing support for the campaign and calling on Atlantic City’s casinos to take action. In response to the growing momentum, several gaming establishments have reportedly expressed interest in exploring the possibility of implementing smoke-free policies in the near future.
As the campaign gains traction, the young activists behind the initiative are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that Atlantic City’s casinos will take meaningful steps to protect the health of children and families. “We are not asking for much – just the chance to enjoy our time in casinos without being exposed to harmful smoke,” says Sarah. “We hope that our videos will inspire change and make a difference for future generations.”
