American Cancer Society Cancels Alcohol Industry Fundraiser

The American Cancer Society has made the decision to cancel its Wine and Spirits Industry's Gala, a fundraiser that has been held for decades. According to a spokesperson, the event was scheduled to take place in October at the Rainbow Room in Manhattan, but will no longer occur.

## Background on the Gala The gala has been a source of funding for the American Cancer Society, with the organization raising at least $22 million from wine and liquor executives over the years. However, some have raised concerns about the optics of a charity focused on fighting cancer accepting money from the alcohol industry, given the known links between alcohol and cancer.

## Conflict of Interest Concerns Some individuals, including a former executive at the American Cancer Society, have expressed concerns that the gala creates a conflict of interest. They argue that it is inappropriate for the organization to accept funding from an industry that contributes to the development of cancer, a condition that the organization is working to prevent and treat.

## Decision to Cancel the Gala The American Cancer Society has stated that the decision to cancel the gala is part of its ongoing evaluation of how its events and fundraising activities align with its mission and prevention guidance. The organization's spokesperson, Michele Money-Carson, confirmed that the gala would not take place, citing the need for the organization's events to align with its mission and values.