History
The observance was founded in 1983 by Alex Hershaft, a Holocaust survivor and advocate for animal rights, through the not-for-profit Washington, DC-based organization Farm Animal Rights Movement. [4] Originally launched as World Farm Animals Day, the campaign was established to memorialize and mourn the millions of animals bred for animal slaughter, and to draw attention to the living conditions of animals in factory farms and other intensive agricultural systems toward ending the use of animals for food. [5] Initially centered on grassroots activism in the United States, the observance gradually expanded in scope and gained international coverage. [6] It has since been associated with various forms of public engagement, such as educational programs and symbolic activities, including government proclamations, aimed at raising awareness toward ending the use of animals for food entirely. [1]
Observance
WDFA's activities take place at local, national, and international levels and are coordinated by grassroots organizations, animal sanctuaries, and animal advocacy groups. [7] Common forms of observance include candlelight vigils, public demonstrations, educational presentations, advertising campaigns, and outreach events held in schools, community centers, and places of worship. [8]
A prominent component of the day is the Fast Against Slaughter, a campaign that invites participants to Hunger strike for 24 hours as a gesture in solidarity with farmed animals. [9] The fast is often accompanied by silent protests, online testimonials, and social media campaigns. [3]
In various countries, including India, the United Kingdom, [10] South Africa, [11] Mexico, and Australia, [12] WDFA events have included street theater, visual installations, and exhibits simulating conditions in industrial farming systems. [13]
Activities and demands
On September 30, 2013, as part of World Day for Farmed Animals, activists from Toronto Pig Save and the Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM) organized a protest at Quality Meat Packers in Toronto. The demonstration included a human chain, a “die-in,” and video screenings to raise awareness about conditions in slaughterhouses. Photographs by Jo-Anne McArthur were displayed to highlight the experiences of farmed animals. Similar protests occurred across over 100 locations in North America and internationally. [14]
On September 29, 2013, local animal rights activists organized a protest at the U.S. Department of Agriculture headquarters in Washington, D.C. The demonstration was part of WDFA, involving coordinated actions at slaughterhouses and animal agriculture facilities to raise awareness about the treatment of farmed animals. [15]
Beginning in 1983, proclamations have been obtained from over two dozen governors and mayors, including New York City, declaring October 2nd as World Day for Farmed Animals within their respective jurisdictions.
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