NEW YORK — On Thursday, two activists from the animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) were taken into custody while attempting to offload a large quantity of manure outside the offices of a competing animal welfare organization in Manhattan. However, the demonstration did not create the significant impact as anticipated, as it was noted that much of the manure remained frozen to the truck’s bed.
Ashley Byrne, a representative of PETA, provided insight into the situation, stating, “Due to the cold temperatures, it didn’t all come out.” As their efforts continued, one individual had to physically climb into the truck to begin removing the waste, but was subsequently stopped by law enforcement before the task was completed.
This act of protest marks a continuation of PETA’s ongoing campaign against the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), particularly regarding the ASPCA’s support of a controversial animal welfare certification program. PETA has criticized the certification provided by the Global Animal Partnership, claiming that it promotes products originating from factory farms and similar establishments known for their treatment of animals.
The animal rights group has urged the ASPCA to withdraw from its position on the board of this partnership, conducting protests and publishing full-page advertisements that accuse the ASPCA of engaging in “humane-washing.” In defense, a representative of the ASPCA asserted that their role was to establish basic standards within the market, signaling a philosophical divide between the two organizations.
“Unlike the ASPCA, PETA is not focused on creating a more humane agricultural system,” stated the SPCA spokesperson. “Their goal is the complete elimination of animal farming, which highlights our differing views on the importance of animal welfare certifications.”
Addressing another protest by PETA last year, the Global Animal Partnership defended its practices, claiming their certification programs are designed to minimize unethical practices, address them promptly when discovered, and continually improve oversight.
The two PETA activists involved in the recent incident were not named and received summonses for illegal dumping, as reported by a police representative. They are scheduled to appear in court on February 11. Additionally, the police confiscated the truck used in the protest, along with the remaining manure, which had been sourced from an animal sanctuary in New Jersey. Byrne confirmed that a significant amount of manure was still present in the truck when it was taken by the authorities.
