Get Involved
Tools and Resources
Leafleting
Leafleting
is a simple way to educate thousands of people on a variety of issues
from the cruelties of veal production to reasons to go vegetarian.
Handing out literature and having one-on-one conversations with individuals
in our communities are inexpensive yet powerful ways to influence people
to lead more compassionate lives. Countless Americans are unaware of the
cruelties farm animals experience on modern-day farms, at stockyards,
and in slaughterhouses. Once they become aware of these cruelties, most
people are appalled, and many are willing to change their lifestyles to
help end the suffering of farm animals. The knowledge one leaflet can
provide has the power to change a life forever.
Farm Sanctuary
produces many effective and informational leaflets to help activists educate
people in their communities. Please click
here to see our literature selection.
Tips
for Effective Leafleting
- Identify
a high traffic area or target establishment (such as a restaurant that
serves crated veal) in which to pass out leaflets. You may also wish
to leaflet outside of major events like concerts, exhibitions, and sports
games.
- Once you
have chosen a location, research to see if you are allowed to leaflet
there.
- Call your mayor's office or local police department to see if it is
legal to pass out leaflets in this area. In general, you may not be
able to pass out leaflets on private property, unless the owner of the
property gives you permission to do so.
- Ascertain if you will need a permit to leaflet in the area you have
chosen. This may take some time, as filing and permission processes
may apply.
- Bring
only one or two types of literature handing out too much may
be overwhelming to those receiving it.
- Approach
people with a smile and a simple question, such as, "Would you
like some dining information?" Be polite and courteous make
eye contact, smile, thank them, and walk away unless, of course,
they would like to know more. If you do not present yourself as friendly
and outgoing, people may simply walk past you without a second thought.
- Do not
get involved in long discussions or arguments, as this will cause you
to miss opportunities to reach more people.
- If you
do become involved in a conversation with someone passing by, stick
to the facts about the cruelty of modern-day factory farms and the benefits
of living a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle; do not complicate things
by discussing abstract philosophies on animal rights.
- Dress
professionally and conservatively. The goal is to present yourself as
an average citizen, not a radical.
- Be prepared
to answer questions about the issue you are addressing with your leaflets.
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.
To obtain
Farm Sanctuary literature for your leafleting, or if you'd like additional
information, please call 607-583-2225 ext. 229 or e-mail activist@farmsanctuary.org.
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