Advocating For Tobacco-Free Policies and Outdoor Spaces

It is important to have a very clear and specific reason for implementing a tobacco-free policy at the sport or recreation level. This is also important when requesting tobacco-free outdoor spaces with municipal government representatives (like the mayor or a city councilor).

   

Here are the key steps that will help you advocate your cause:

1. Know Your Cause

There are many reasons why tobacco-free sport and recreation is important. You and your sport or recreation team can play a key role in:

  • Preventing youth from starting to use tobacco industry products
  • Protecting everyone from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke
  • Helping those who are trying to quit tobacco industry products and those who have quit, remain tobacco-free.

2. Think Big

Both the city and your school board can help you make bigger changes in your community. Connect with your City Counsellors and school board members to make them aware of your cause and gain their support. With their help, you will be one step closer to benching the Tobacco Industry for good.

3. Join Forces

There is power in numbers. More people advocating for tobacco-free spaces will lead to a more powerful group to show greater support for the issue. Brainstorm a list of your potential allies and approach them to work with you on this cause. Think outside the box and look for a variety of groups.

Some examples of people to partner with:

  • Businesses that sponsor teams
  • Other sport & recreation teams
  • Your local health unit

4. Cheer For Your Team - Show The Love!

Show support for tobacco-free sport and recreation by:

  • Collecting signatures for a petition
  • Conducting a survey
  • Writing a letter to the editor in the local paper
  • Issuing a media release before your tobacco-free sport and recreating event to profile your activity in the media

Tips:

Make sure you have peer support, because this policy is all about them. Use your creativity as well as theirs to communicate how you feel about tobacco-free outdoor spaces.


For more information or assistance contact your local health unit.