San Diego Protest Against Dogfighting And Michael Vick

NFL urged to add animal fighting to “Prohibited Activities” list for players.

San Diego, Calif. – Members of In Defense of Animals (IDA) and other pro-animal activists will hold a peaceful and powerful protest against Michael Vick’s San Diego appearance this Sunday. IDA’s message for the demonstration, which will be held at Dog Beach: we have not forgotten Vick’s actions, and we oppose his weak punishment, lack of remorse, and multi-million dollar contract with the Eagles.

What:     Peaceful Protest of Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles
When:    Sunday, November 15, 2009   noon – 2:00 pm
Where:   Dog Beach, San Diego, CA. 92107

IDA asks the NFL to communicate a powerful message of disapproval for animal cruelty by prohibiting the Eagles and any other team from employing convicted animal abusers. We also ask the NFL to include animal fighting among the prohibited conduct listed in the league’s Personal Conduct Policy. The league must put principles before profit and help prevent players from getting involved in this cruel activity.

Vick tortured animals, including electrocution, hanging, and drowning. While Vick does have a right to seek employment, a position in the NFL potentially earning $7 million over the next two years is more than he deserves. According to IDA’s Grassroots Campaigns Director Hope Bohanec, “that’s way too comfortable for a violent convicted felon, who supplied the property and dollars and confessed to killing six to eight dogs who refused to fight because of their gentle nature.”

By employing Michael Vick, the NFL and the Eagles send the message that torturing animals is not serious. Impressionable young people see that the public admonishment of his crimes was followed by a multi-million dollar job. It will be interpreted as acceptance of his character and actions.

Vick served less than two years for actively participating in and bankrolling an interstate dogfighting ring. The NFL has an opportunity to do the right thing and play ball – without Michael Vick.

Contacts:
Robert & Marilyn Kingsley, (619) 263-9753, bobking@nethere.com
Hope Bohanec, Campaigns Director, (415) 448-0048 ex. 208, hope@idausa.org