Experts Raise Concerns About the Impact of Betting on the Black Community
Published: March 31, 2025
Betting has become a popular form of entertainment, but it also comes with risks — particularly for the Black community, which may be more vulnerable to betting-related harms.
A 2022 study found that 32 percent of African Americans in Ohio who engage in betting met the criteria for a gambling disorder or were at risk. That’s compared to 18 percent of Caucasian Ohioans and 25 percent of people of other races who bet.
According to Rolling Out, some experts say sports betting companies target African American audiences, pointing out the disproportionate number of betting ads and establishments in Black neighborhoods, which often promote betting as a path to financial success while downplaying the risks.
Others point to factors beyond marketing. According to the Toledo Blade, Tracee Perryman, the CEO and co-founder of Toledo’s Center for Hope Family Services Inc., says that African Americans face higher exposure to poverty than white populations, creating a wealth gap that contributes to the disparity in gambling disorder rates. And Megan Poliquin, who manages gambling treatment at the Zepf Center in Ohio, told the Toledo Blade that social factors play a role: “[I]n my experience, my clients are not directly impacted by marketing. It’s more about family history, gambling as a social activity. It’s something you do with your buddies.”
As experts investigate the disparity, one thing is certain: more resources are needed to help address the increased rate of gambling disorders in the Black community. We’ve assembled resources that can help communities promote responsible betting and support those who may be experiencing betting-related harms.
- African American community toolkit: We’ve created resources designed to help equip African Americans with information about betting risks, warning signs of a gambling disorder, and tips for betting responsibly, including setting financial limits and knowing when to stop. The toolkit includes posters, social media posts, and PSA videos for organizations and community centers to share.
- The quiz: While not a substitute for a diagnosis, the Rate Your Risk quiz can help individuals gauge their risk level for a gambling disorder. Available online and as a printable one-pager in the African American toolkit, the quiz is designed to be easily sharable in community centers and outreach programs.
- Problem Gambling Helpline: Trained and understanding specialists are available 24/7 to answer calls from individuals who might have questions about their betting decisions. To improve access to this essential support service, we’ve created a helpline toolkit that organizations can distribute in their communities.
And if you or someone you know has questions or concerns about their betting, don’t hesitate to call the free National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or text 4HOPE to 741741. Support is available any time with no judgment or strings attached. You can also access virtual telehealth services at no cost through the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network.