Resolution Adopted by the CCAR

Smoking

Adopted by the CCAR at the 96th Annual Convention of
the Central Conference of American Rabbis
1985

Whereas we are enjoined by our Torah to "choose life," making it incumbent on us to speak out against the demonstrated health hazard of smoking, and

Whereas there is evidence that seventy-five percent of deaths from lung cancer could be avoided if individuals did not smoke, yet thirty percent of all Americans still smoke, and

Whereas a recent study shows that specific changes in lung function occur in children who live with smoking parents, and that living with smoking parents also promotes such respiratory infections as bronchitis and pneumonia; and though no one would consciously seek to harm family, friends, and co-workers, yet by continuing the practice we attack the health and well-being of our children, grandchildren, and others,

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the CCAR take a stand against smoking, both by personal example and by the establishment of programs which seek to discourage smoking.