Group Goals and Guidelines

Group Goals and Guidelines

Goals

- Spread awareness about animal exploitations in the most effective manner possible

- Guide the public to more compassionate decisions


Ethics

We would like the group to be peaceful, understanding, and caring to the people we encounter.

We believe that the power of persuasion is best when the person is your friend, or they are treated like one; treated with respect and compassion.


Here is an example of a situation that we may encounter:

Someone walks by in a full length fur coat. One of our leafleters offers some literature and they are ignored. The person wearing fur might still believe that animals are property and at this time NO persuasion will get them to change their mind.


What is the best way to handle this situation?

a) Say "Animal Killer!"
b) Say "Have a nice day", "Take care", "Thank you" ... sincerely.
c) Say nothing and let them walk away.

What might the results of each of these answers be?

Answer a.

The person may become upset, defensive, and view the group, or animal rights people in general, in a negative manner. Fighting with them or trying to discipline them often fails. The more you fight with them, the more they will tend to fight back. Which is exactly what we DON'T want! We would like to create allies and not enemies!

If we behave in this manner people around us may think that we are forceful and threatening. As a result they might call the police and complain. The group's image could be compromised.

Most importantly, they could view the campaign's message negatively or not even consider giving it a chance.

Answer b.

In our opinion, it's not that easy for someone to be upset if we are being friendly. While they may not agree with us, at least they can walk away knowing we were nice. If we make a positive impression, they may give the message a chance. Compassion can be a powerful thing!

It also sets a wonderful example to everyone around us that we have a love for all beings.

Answer c.

We would rather have you say nothing than to say something negative. It's okay not say anything. Infact, sometimes it's best to just let it be. They've seen the posters, heard the chants, seen the props, and been asked if they'd like more information. They chose not to accept. If you don't think you can say "Thank you" or "Have a nice day" while meaning it, then maybe it's better to remain silent.


We would like the public to know that we are caring people and that we are here to help out if they decide to go cruelty-free. We want to set an example for everyone. 'Compassion for Animals' is not just for the animals, but extends to humans as well.

Please remember none of us are perfect. There may have been times when we weren't ready to be convinced. Hopefully, we can look back and realize how we reacted to people asking us to change. That being said, we believe that if someone does not want to change at this time, then at least we know we tried and we can move on to the next person.

We cannot make people think a certain way. What we can do is offer suggestions in the most effective way we know how and hope that they see the implications of animal exploitation and consider changing.

Attire

During our campaigns we set an example for the public on what our group feels is acceptable. Many people are quick to judge and point out the way we choose to dress, especially the media, who may intentionally look for these types of contradictions. This can have a serious effect on our credibility.

We expect you to dress as cruelty-free and as professional as possible.

This means 'NO': Wool, leather, fur, or other animal exploitive clothing.

The Power of change by only a few people

As only a few people, we have the power to influence many. There are tens of thousands of people just like us all over the world that stand up for animal rights, and it's making a HUGE difference. A group of five people doing a campaign on a busy street can engage hundreds or even thousands of people to at least 'think' about what they are doing. Not to mention TV, newspaper, and magazine coverage...

When people choose to 'go compassionate' they usually pass the message on to others and the love spreads.


If you disagree with any of these guidelines or have a question please feel free to contact us personally: Our mail box

Laura and Andre - Campaign Managers