A gathering of animal welfare activists took place outside a Safeway in Oakland on Wednesday evening, drawing attention to the treatment and slaughter of poultry as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. Cassie King, an organizer with Direct Action Everywhere, expressed the group’s concerns, stating, “We’re here protesting the violence behind Thanksgiving and the continued mass slaughter of over 40 million turkeys every single year, and that’s just for Thanksgiving.”
The protest holds special significance as it coincides with the impending sentencing of activist Zoe Rosenberg, who faces up to 4-and-a-half years in prison following her conviction for trespassing and conspiracy charges last month. Rosenberg gained national attention after taking four chickens from Petaluma Poultry, a division of Purdue Farms, which she claims was inflicting distress upon the animals. In a video capturing the incident, she explained that the group had been investigating the facility, which they deemed problematic.
Petaluma Poultry has criticized Rosenberg’s actions as “extreme tactics” that pose safety risks to the plant. With her sentencing approaching on December 3, the 23-year-old University of California, Berkeley graduate is spending time at her family’s animal sanctuary, emotionally preparing for what lies ahead.
The case has garnered support from notable figures, including actor Joaquin Phoenix, who issued a statement urging the Sonoma County District Attorney to address the documented animal cruelty at the Perdue facility, rather than targeting activists like Rosenberg. King commented on the motivation this situation has provided for their cause, saying, “What this repression is doing is actually fueling people to come out, ensuring that hopefully hundreds will gather at Zoe’s sentencing.”
As the Thanksgiving holiday nears, the ongoing conversation about animal rights and welfare remains urgent, highlighted by the passionate voices of activists advocating for change.