Sports should bring families together, not expose children to harmful influences. Yet, in Canada, families watching something as simple and joyful as a Blue Jays, Leafs, or Raptors game are bombarded with relentless gambling advertisements.

For many parents, this has created a difficult and heartbreaking choice: turn off the game to protect their kids or expose them to gambling ads that normalize betting and encourage risky behavior.

One father, as shared by Honorary Marty Deacon during the second reading of Bill S-269, recounted his experience with his 7-year-old son, a bright and athletic boy who loved watching the Blue Jays and Canadiens. Initially, the father tried to logically explain the risks of gambling to his son. But one day, the boy asked a question that changed everything:

“Can I bet my own money, Dad?”

That was the breaking point for this father, and the TV was turned off for good.

This is not an isolated incident. Studies show that exposure to gambling ads significantly increases the likelihood of gambling behaviors in youth. Families across Canada are being forced to make tough decisions to shield their children from these pervasive messages, but they shouldn’t have to.

We are calling on broadcasters like Sportsnet, TSN, and CBC Sports, as well as leagues like the NHL, MLB, and NBA, to create a family-friendly sports channel free from gambling advertisements.

This channel could be offered as a subscription-based option for families who are willing to pay extra for the peace of mind that comes with knowing their children are safe from harmful marketing.

Sports should be about the game, not about gambling. Let’s protect the innocence of our children and bring back the joy of sports as a family tradition.

Sign this petition today to show broadcasters and leagues that Canadian families demand better. Together, we can create change.