PETA Statement: Death of Hope Elephants Founder, Dr. James Laurita

For Immediate Release:
September 10, 2014

When people ignore experts’ recommendation to keep a constant, secure barrier between elephants and humans (known as “protected contact”), the consequences can be disastrous. Dr. James Laurita’s death must serve as a wake-up call that “free contact” easily becomes deadly contact—that’s why PETA is urging Hope Elephants to send these elephants to a true, accredited sanctuary in a more appropriate, warmer climate. There, they would be handled safely and humanely and be able to explore vast territories in the company of other elephants.

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 Ingrid E. Newkirk

“Almost all of us grew up eating meat, wearing leather, and going to circuses and zoos. We never considered the impact of these actions on the animals involved. For whatever reason, you are now asking the question: Why should animals have rights?” READ MORE

— Ingrid E. Newkirk, PETA President and co-author of Animalkind