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.