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Tools and Resources

Demonstrations

A demonstration for farm animals is an effective way to bring wide public exposure to factory farming and the establishments that profit from the abuse and exploitation of animals used for food production. You don't need hundreds of participants to make a demonstration successful. With proper planning, organization and the right materials, a handful of activists can reach and teach thousands of people about farmed animal suffering — and what they can do to stop it.

Tips for an Effective Demonstration

• Demonstrations are all about getting noticed. Plan your demonstration for a place and time that insures maximum exposure.
• Every effort should be made to plan and execute a legal demonstration. Contact city, county, or state officials to answer questions about your event and fill out an application for a permit. During the demonstration, maintain control of your participants. Do not block traffic or city sidewalks. Most importantly, make sure your demonstration remains peaceful, no matter how challenging or hostile the situation.
• Bring literature and signs specific to the demonstration's purpose. Signage is very important, as you will want people driving by, those at a distance, and the media to be able to read your sign and know what your demonstration is about. A large banner can also make a small group of people look sizeable.
• If possible, set up a TV and VCR to show movies illustrating the issue that you are targeting. For example, our video Misery on the Menu focuses on the issue of crated veal calves, and is an effective tool in convincing passers-by not to patronize an establishment that profits off of this cruelty. If you can successfully set up a viewing, Farm Sanctuary can provide selected videos for this purpose.
• Notify the media at least a day before your demonstration is to occur. Send press releases to all major media outlets in your area to increase your chances of coverage. Be ready for the media when they show up. Make sure your group is prepared to be photographed and designate a spokesperson who can deliver an official statement detailing the purpose of your demonstration.

Order literature, posters, signs, buttons and videos from Farm Sanctuary for your demonstration.

If you would like to obtain Farm Sanctuary literature and/or posters for your demonstration, or would like additional information regarding grassroots activism, please e-mail activist@farmsanctuary.org or call 607-583-2225 ext. 229.

To get more involved in this and other activist projects, join Farm Sanctuary's Activist Network. Please click here to fill out our online Activist Questionnaire.