Jackson Town Council’s Hasty Ban on Displays Draws Free Speech Challenge From PETA

For Immediate Release:
May 7, 2026

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

Within 24 hours of PETA installing its E(n)d Shearin’ sheep statue in Jackson Town Square to remind shoppers that wool comes from terrified sheep who are beaten, stomped on, and violently killed, the Jackson Town Council voted to eliminate the town’s “Temporary Unattended Display” policy. So today, PETA sent an urgent letter urging the Council to reconsider the decision, noting that the new anti-free speech policy may “fleece the community of a valuable venue for free expression” and arguing that eliminating creative, peaceful educational displays helps no one.

The statue—named after the singer Ed Sheeran—features artwork by renowned New Yorker cartoonist Harry Bliss and depicts protesting sheep holding signs reading “I’m Someone, Not A Sweater!” and “Where Is Your Empathy?” In the letter, PETA notes that in just the few days the statue has been up, people have flocked to it, taking photos and engaging in thoughtful discussions about why wool is best left on the animals born with it.

“PETA’s sheep statue encouraged countless people to think critically about where their clothing comes from and make kinder choices, which is exactly the type of constructive public discourse that the Town Square should foster,” says PETA President Tracy Reiman. “Shutting down this important channel for dialogue silences voices speaking up for animals and undermines Jackson’s commitment to free expression.”

Sheep are highly social animals who form strong bonds with each other. They grow depressed if isolated from their flock and communicate their emotions through facial expressions, just like humans. PETA entities have now released 17 exposés of over 150 wool industry operations in seven countries on four continents—revealing that even on self-proclaimed “ethical” and “responsible” farms, extreme cruelty and violence are rampant.

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