International Animal Rights Day
#InternationalAnimalRightsDay
International Animal Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 10. International Animal Rights Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of animal rights and advocates for animals’ ethical and humane treatment.
This day highlights the need for society to recognize that animals, like humans, are sentient beings capable of experiencing pain and suffering and should be treated with kindness and consideration.
International Animal Rights Day was created in 1998 by the animal rights association Uncaged, whose goal was to highlight all forms of violence against animals. December 10th was chosen as the celebration date because it coincides with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights anniversary. The shared day emphasizes the interconnectedness of human and animal rights.
Animals are important to us for many reasons. Each species has its own unique role, and their diversity enriches ecosystems, making them more resilient to environmental changes. Animals help advance scientific knowledge and hold cultural significance in many societies worldwide.
Many people find companionship, joy, and comfort in animals. Pets, in particular, can improve mental health, reduce stress, and provide companionship and emotional support.
All of these reasons make International Animal Rights Day an important day to celebrate animals, and to grab the public’s attention, to persuade them to treat animals with the respect they deserve.
How to celebrate:
- Teach kids about animal rights
- Choose cruelty-free and animal-friendly products
- Support companies that do not engage in animal testing
- Volunteer with an animal rights group
- Watch a show about animal rights and conservation.
- Write an editorial for your local newspaper about animal rights.
Fun Facts:
- PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is one of the biggest animal-rights activist organizations
- Animal sentience laws recognize that animals feel emotions like joy and sorrow.
- The concept of animal rights began thousands of years ago in religions like Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism.
- The UK’s Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act of 2022 mandates that animal protection be factored into policy decisions.
- New Zealand, Peru, and Sweden have laws that recognize the intrinsic value of animals as sentient beings deserving of ethical treatment.
- Spain’s Law 17/2021 elevates animals to sentient status and even considers them as family members.
