July Degree Ceremony Demonstrations

The tourist season is in full swing in Oxford now, resulting in huge amounts of leaflets being taken and read by large amounts of visitors from all countries of the world. Though speaking many different languages, they all share the horror felt when they learn from SPEAK about the vivisection that takes place inside Oxford University and the huge numbers of animals involved.

As the degree ceremonies took place inside the Sheldonion Theatre there was a constant stream of people walking past, none of whom failed to see the activists standing outside the Theatre, surrounded by large and colourful banners and placards. More people than ever stopped to find out more and to sign the petition against such atrocities – showing that despite the best efforts of the pro vivisectors, the majority of people do not support such a cruel and outdated form of research.

Those attending the ceremonies were given information not only about the animal suffering that takes place inside Oxford University, but also why SPEAK supporters have a presence outside every degree ceremony – because while they celebrate their graduation, animals are dying in their hundreds just a short distance away.

The fact that the pain and suffering caused to these animals is legal, does not make it right or acceptable. It just makes us realise that we have a long way to go in this country until we are truly civilised.