EQUALITY KNOWS NO SPECIES! SPECIESISM AND ANIMAL RIGHTS: A CALL FOR COMPASSION

World Day for the End of Speciesism is celebrated every year the last weekend of August. This 10^th edition will be held on August, 31.

Many animal rights groups, organizations, activists, animal lovers around the world organize actions to denounce speciesism discrimination and demand that the interests of animals be fully taken into account.

Speciesism, a form of prejudice based on species (a form of discrimination resembling racism and sexism), is the belief that humans are inherently superior to other animals. This belief often underpins the exploitation and suffering of animals in various industries, including food, fashion, research, and entertainment.

• Species-based discrimination: The belief that one’s species is more deserving of moral consideration than others.
• Double standards: Applying different ethical standards to humans and animals, often favoring humans without justification.
• Denial of sentience: The assumption that animals are incapable of experiencing pain, suffering, or joy.
• Justifying exploitation: Using arguments like “it’s natural” or “they’re just animals” to justify the exploitation of animals.

Specism is often rooted in cultural, religious, and philosophical beliefs. It can also be reinforced by personal experiences and societal norms. However, it is important to recognize that these beliefs are not based on scientific evidence and are often biased.

Animal rights advocates argue that all sentient beings, regardless of species, have a right to life, liberty, and freedom from suffering. They contend that animals are sentient beings, capable of feeling emotions and so capable of experiencing pain, fear, and joy, and that their interests should be considered and respected.

• Sentience and Suffering: Animals are capable of experiencing pain, pleasure, and emotions. Denying them moral consideration based solely on their species is discriminatory.
• Cognitive Abilities: Many animals exhibit complex behaviours, problem-solving skills, and social structures, challenging the notion of human exceptionalism.
• Ethical Consistency: If we agree that it is wrong to cause unnecessary suffering to humans, there is no logical reason to exclude animals from this moral consideration.
• Environmental Impact: Animal agriculture contributes significantly to climate change, deforestation, and water pollution. Adopting plant-based diets can help mitigate these environmental problems.

• Veganism: A lifestyle that avoids the consumption of animal products.
• Animal Liberation: The goal of ending the exploitation and suffering of animals.
• Ethical Consumerism: Making informed choices that support companies and industries that treat animals humanely.
• Advocacy and Education: Raising awareness about animal rights issues and advocating for legal and social changes to protect animals.

• Empathy and compassion: Recognizing the suffering of animals and extending moral consideration to them.
• Critical thinking: Questioning the assumptions and beliefs that underlie specism.
• Ethical consistency: Applying the same ethical principles to all sentient beings.
• Advocacy: Supporting animal rights organizations and promoting veganism.

By challenging speciesism and advocating for animal rights, we can work towards a more compassionate and just world for all beings.

THIS YEAR CELEBRATE WITH US THE WORLD DAY FOR THE END OF SPECIESISM

⇒ Read more about speciesism on WoDES’s website and other resources

⇒ Take a look at our activities in aid of animals

⇒ Download and post on social media our dedicated graphics