(Photo taken from a demonstration at Romford Greyhound Stadium on 17/6/23)
Yesterday (29/6/23) in London, supporters of Animal Rising met with representatives from Towcester Racecourse and the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) to discuss the upcoming disruption at the English Greyhound Derby this Saturday (1/7/23).
The meeting, organised at Animal Rising’s invitation, aimed to establish a respectful, honest, and direct dialogue between the two sides.
In the spirit of “openness and accountability” supporters of Animal Rising have met with individuals representing the Greyhound racing industry. The meeting was an opportunity for both groups to understand each other better and try to find common ground where possible.
Animal Rising made clear that any actions would be nonviolent and individuals will aim to put themselves between the Greyhounds and harm by getting on the track while no dogs are on it. In a later statement Kevin Boothby, managing director at Towcester Racecourse, preemptively condemns potential violence from racegoers - for which Animal Rising thanks him [1].
At the meeting, representatives from GBGB and Towcester Racecourse turned down an offer from Animal Rising for an open debate on Greyhound racing. However, they did reveal that a plan has been made to safeguard the Greyhounds if, and when, the industry comes to an end.
Following the meeting one of the Animal Rising supporters, Rose Patterson, said:
“We would like to thank them for accepting our invitation to meet. I really appreciate that they took the time to speak with us and allow the two sides to have their positions heard, which did result in sympathies arising both ways.
“While we are saddened by the fact that the industry coming to an end would be stressful and disruptive to those that currently work in it, it does not change our position that this has to happen in order to protect the Greyhounds. Our door is always open anytime they would like to talk with us, or if they change their mind about a debate.”
Animal Rising supports calls by the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, and Blue Cross to end Greyhound racing in the UK.
Animal Rising is a social movement to create a new relationship with all beings and give us a chance for a safe ecological future. The group primarily calls for the transition to a safe and secure plant-based food system, alongside a mass rewilding programme.
ENDS
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