Nearly Nude ‘Human Turkey’ to Make Jaw-Dropping ‘ThanksVegan’ Plea in Syracuse

For Immediate Release:
November 13, 2026

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

 In the lead-up to Thanksgiving, as people are planning their holiday meal, a nearly naked, “trussed-up” PETA supporter will lie beside a giant “turkey carcass” on an oversized cutting board at a busy intersection near Syracuse University on Tuesday. The provocative “holiday spread” is set to urge onlookers to put themselves in a turkey’s place—and leave these wonderful, gentle birds in peace by tucking into a delicious vegan roast centerpiece instead.

“Turkeys are devoted parents and spirited individuals, and they don’t deserve to be carved up on the holiday table any more than we do,” says PETA President Tracy Reiman. “PETA’s provocative appeal encourages everyone to relate to who is on their plate and opt for a delicious ThanksVegan feast that shows compassion to all.”

Where:           200 Marshall St. (at the intersection of University and Marshall), Syracuse

When:            Tuesday, November 17, 12 noon

Credit: PETA

Why:              In nature, turkeys can live for over 10 years and spend their days caring for their young, building nests, and roosting in trees. But those raised for food have their throats slit within their first six months of life, and tens of millions are killed each year for Thanksgiving alone. PETA’s free vegan starter kit and “ThanksVegan” guide are filled with tips to help anyone looking to make the switch.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat”—points out that when it comes to the ability to feel pain, hunger, and thirst, a turkey is a dog is a boy. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.