12 Jaw-Dropping Protests Around the World That Ignited Change for Animals

As we celebrate Mercy For Animals’ 25th anniversary, we reflect on the impact our work has made. Through protests, investigations, calls for a more plant-based food system, and partnerships with major celebrities, we have opened the hearts and minds of millions of people to the plight of animals raised and killed for food. With the help of volunteers, donors, and supporters, we have confronted cruelty and secured significant policies to reduce animal suffering. We know that, together, we can create a world free of industrial animal agriculture. 

To celebrate our progress and victories, let’s look back at some of our most influential protests that have sparked action for animals.

United States

Ag Gag

Blindfolded and gagged, about 70 Mercy For Animals team members and supporters descended upon the North Carolina state capitol to urge Gov. Pat McCrory to veto a controversial ag-gag bill.

McDonald’s Cruelty 

After the Animal Rights National Conference​​ in 2019, Mercy For Animals and other animal protection groups held a large demonstration outside a McDonald’s location near Washington, DC. About 150 activists called on the fast-food giant to reduce suffering for chickens in their supply chain.

Mod Pizza Cruelty

During this protest, demonstrators used inflatables to bring attention to animal suffering in Mod Pizza’s supply chain.

Costco Exposed

Tactics in our Costco Exposed campaign included light-up signs, billboards, and projections. These methods helped expose the suffering chickens endure for Costco.

Chipotle: Food Without Integrity

Activists in New York City staged a powerful protest that led to the temporary closure of a Chipotle location.

India

​​World Egg Day 

This protest on World Egg Day garnered attention from over 22 media outlets and saw an impressive turnout of committed volunteers.

Gandhi Statue 

A demonstration at the Gandhi statue in Jaipur, Rajasthan, marked the exciting beginning of our volunteer program and activities in the state!

People for Animals on Independence Day

About 15 eager volunteers took part in this captivating demonstration, drawing interest from seven media outlets!

Mexico 

Alcemos las Voces por los Animales

Around 140 Mercy For Animals team members and volunteers gathered in the heart of Mexico City for an eye-catching demonstration. Our staff led the performance, while volunteers led the outreach, handing out information and engaging passersby.

Velada por los Animales

This was the largest-ever animal rights event in Mexico, with 25 organizations and 600 attendees. During the event, participants lit candles to symbolize the spread of hope, community, and awareness about the plight of animals. 

Brazil 

Live-Export Campaign

Coordinated by volunteer leaders in São Paulo, this demonstration with 110 attendees aimed to exert pressure on policymakers to reconsider live-export practices, shedding light on increasing public demand for animal protection and raising awareness about animal welfare.

Behind the Fires 

Close to 50 volunteers took to Paulista Avenue in São Paulo with a powerful message: The Amazon is burning, and the world’s appetite for meat is fueling the fires. The demonstration and the campaign behind it highlighted the link between deforestation and the worldwide demand for meat, encouraging people to reconsider their food choices.

Mercy For Animals would like to thank everyone who has made our 25 years possible. Your support helps secure the future success of Mercy For Animals’ critical work, empowering us to help more farmed animals across the United States and around the world. Join the celebration here!