It is outrageous that gambling is being considered for legalization in the state of Alabama.
Have our political and governmental leaders sunk so low that they are willing to use the methods that have long been associated with, and dominated by, criminals and organized crime to bring in more revenue? Have our judges and political leaders become so blinded by money that they don’t know what gambling is anymore?
Gambling should be against the law and looked upon as a crime throughout the state. Legalizing gambling does not limit it. On the contrary, organized crime and criminal activity thrive where gambling is legalized. Gambling corrupts government — the large sums of money generated by gambling are often used to bribe state and local officials and to put people into office who favor gambling. A New York Times editorial noted, “Gambling is a business so rich, so fast, so powerful and perhaps inevitably so unsavory that it cannot help but undermine government.”
In addition to the corruption it brings, gambling hurts a state’s economy. It takes money that could be invested, loaned, used to start businesses, etc., and puts it in the pockets of multimillionaire owners of gambling establishments.
Gambling is bad for the people. It is a reverse Robin Hood: It takes money from the poor and gives it to the rich. One New York gambling agent said, “Seventy percent of those who gamble with me are poor, black or Hispanic.” Two businesses that thrive in gambling areas are pawnshops and quick loan operations.
Gambling can be addictive like drugs and alcohol. There are at least 12 million compulsive gamblers in America today, of which 96 percent started before they were 14 years old. It is growing in popularity among young people today. Gambling has a destructive effect on families. It often produces strife, divorce and bankruptcy.
Gambling is directly opposed to the Judeo-Christian ethic and is contrary to biblical principles. Gambling promotes materialism — the Bible opposes it. Gambling encourages people to risk what they have in the hope of getting lucky. On the other hand, the Bible teaches honest work, integrity, savings and benevolence. Gambling should be vigorously opposed by all people of the Judeo-Christian faith if for no other reason than the effect it will have on the weaker brother and how it will affect the community.
If you truly love “Sweet Home Alabama,” you will do all that you can to keep gambling out of this state and to unseat those who are advocates of its legalization and spread.
Bob Wilkerson
Pinson, Ala.
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