Animal Justice Project campaigners staged a protest at Tesco in Cambridge, blocking a supermarket aisle to raise awareness about the 9 million turkeys killed every year in the UK. They entered the Newmarket Road store with signs and leaflets, which displayed images of turkeys and messaging asking the public if they will “be their Christmas miracle.”
The group sat on the ground preventing shoppers from accessing the freezers where turkeys were for sale.
“Security asked the group to leave immediately, they refused and left peacefully of their own accord after around 60 minutes,” said a spokesperson for Animal Justice Project.
The spokesperson said event highlights were:
- Shoppers met with controversial and challenging content.
- Targeted a Christmas tradition.
- Strong reaction from security.
- Educational materials distributed.
“This protest highlights the growing demand for plant-based food, and a move away from the traditional Christmas turkey,” said the spokesperson.
“The Daily Express reported that there is a Rising Number of People who want Veggie and Meat-Free Dishes this Christmas evidencing a survey carried out by Tesco which discovered that 27% of people would be having plant-based options for Christmas this year.
“As consumer trends shift toward ethical dining choices, this protest amplifies the call to rethink traditions that perpetuate animal suffering.
“Turkeys are intelligent, curious, and sensitive animals capable of forming close bonds and expressing emotions. Yet, every year, millions endure short, grim lives in intensive farms only to be slaughtered for holiday feasts. They deserve so much more.”
Animal Justice Project says it is urging the public “to choose kindness this Christmas by leaving all animals off their plates. Embracing plant-based dishes not only spares lives but aligns with a growing movement toward sustainability and compassion”.
Sean Barrs, Animal Justice Project Campaigner: “Our event aimed to send a powerful message: turkeys are remarkable, intelligent, and gentle creatures who deserve lives of freedom — not lives ended in the name of holiday traditions.
“This festive season, we have the chance to create a kinder world by rethinking what’s on our plates. Why not celebrate a truly compassionate Christmas by choosing meals that leave animals out of them entirely?
“Together, we can honour the spirit of the season with love and kindness for all beings.”
Background:
Animal Justice Project is an animal rights organisation based in the UK with over 200,000 followers across social media platforms and a ten year history of campaigning to end animal agriculture and exploitation. www.animaljusticeproject.com
