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Indybay Feature

We Choose Because They Can't!

by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
Fresno Voices for Animals held a protest at the Ringling Brothers circus in Fresno. Pictures and report from the first day of protests.
550_circus_1.jpg

WE CHOOSE BECAUSE THEY CAN'T!

On Wednesday, July 14 we had our debut action with great success!

Outside of Selland Arena, surrounded by a force of security staff, event staff, and Fresno Police Department officers which outnumbered us 2-1, we educated the public about the inhumane torture that is common practice at Ringling Bros. circus. English-speaking media refused to even accept a press packet with documentation of our claims.

But who cares! Our message was heard and received. It was powerful to see a father and son watch video of 'training' and turn around to walk away. After reading our literature, Circus goers actually got up out of their seats and left the 'show.' Others tried to cash in their tickets and were told that there were no refunds. Others, told us this was the last Circus that they would go to now that they knew what goes on behind the scenes. I'm sure the children who had balloons with an anti-abuse message ripped from their hands by event staff don't think that it is the 'greatest show on earth.

' Much thanks to all who came out to support!

Please join us for the:

SEND 'EM OUT OF TOWN RALLY!
Saturday, July 17, 2004 2:00 pm and 6:00pm
Selland Arena (M St. between Inyo St. and O St.)

See SF Bay IMC coverage of Wednesday's events:

'Circus Animal Torture Demo in Fresno', Dallas Blanchard: http://www.indybay.org/news/2004/07/1688879.php

'Are They At It Again?: Ringling Bros. Undercover Security', FVA: http://www.indybay.org/news/2004/07/1688887.php

In Struggle, Nicholas DeGraff
Fresno Voices for Animals (FVA)
(559) 213-2042

Fresno Voices for Animals (FVA): was formed by Fresno residents who have become increasingly concerned with the torture and violence perpetrated toward animals who are imprisoned for entertainment. Fresno Voices for Animals is a non-violent advocacy group that works to extend justice to our non-human friends. 'We Choose Because They Can't!'

§The slave trade is alive and kicking
by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
550_circus_2.jpg
Photo by Mike Rhodes
550_circus_8.jpg
Photo by Mike Rhodes
§Help me!
by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
550_circus_3.jpg
§Free Speech dispute
by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
550_circus_4.jpg
Attorney Bob Navarro negotiates with police over where the protestors can hold this event. Ringling Brothers representatives wanted the protestors removed. The police pointed to a line on the sidewalk where they wanted the protestors to move. Since the City of Fresno owns both the sidewalk and the convention center protestors questioned the arbitrary line in the sand. (photo by Genie Baranof)
§Circuses are no fun for animals
by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
550_circus_5.jpg
§Nick DeGraff is interviewed by Univision ch 21
by Combined sources (MikeRhodes [at] Comcast.net)
550_circus_6.jpg
Photo by Genie Baranof
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Jody Williams
Mon, Oct 18, 2004 9:38AM
human companion
Mon, Oct 18, 2004 9:11AM
jenny
Mon, Oct 18, 2004 9:10AM
Jen Adams
Mon, Oct 18, 2004 9:05AM
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Tue, Jul 20, 2004 10:47AM
human companion
Thu, Jul 15, 2004 6:47PM
bonobo
Thu, Jul 15, 2004 6:13PM
forage
Thu, Jul 15, 2004 8:54AM
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