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News
Activists Speak Out at Seal Protest
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On the 14th March 2008, animal rights activists from Beauty without Cruelty and joined by members of Seal Alert, Animal Rights Africa, the Vegan Society, Ban Foie Gras and Uncaged in Cape Town and Pretoria came together to protest the killing of seals in both Namibia and Canada.
In Cape Town, the protest was meant to be held outside the offices of the Canadian Consulate, but due to police pressure and lack of time to fight the issue, the protest was moved up the road outside Newspaper House.
Up to 30 people, dressed in black to symbolise mourning for those animals that have been killed by both countries in the past and those 300 000 who will still be killed this year by Canadian and Namibian sealers in the most appallingly cruel manner, stood and sat on the street with pictures and posters. Our best moment, which had some of us close to tears was a wonderful man who took the time to shake each and every one of our hands to thank us for taking time out to educate the world on the horror that takes place.
Two people handed out pamphlets and posters while Nikki spoke to press and Lejane to passers-by and yes, there were lots of people who applauded, gave thumbs up and showed approval. The protest finished with a slow march around the square and a final group photo. The vibe was excellent and the feedback from the public supportive.
In Pretoria, 25 to 30 activists from the above mentioned groups, also dressed in black, got together outside the Namibian High Commission to show displeasure at the Namibian and Canadian seal culls.
The protesters chanted, sat down outside the High Commission which is in a quieter area and then moved to busy Church Street to try and catch the traffic until their police guardians moved them away after about half an hour. One of the commission secretaries came out to deliver their side of the story, and there were plenty of comings and goings of staff and 'dignitaries' in huge fancy cars, so the protestors were definitely seen, if ignored.
The public though were also very appreciative of the efforts of the protestors, with many hooting and shouting their support as they passed by. The media were well looked after by Anne and Anastasya and certainly the public as well as the Namibian representatives could have been left with no doubts whatsoever that there are many people in South Africa who find the seal cull abhorrent.
The organizers would like to take this time to say thank you to all who attended. It was a great success and we are very proud of all those who are not silent in the face of the cruelty inflicted on those who cannot speak for themselves.
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