die-in -

Die-ins are a visually powerful and symbolic form of protest where activists lie motionless in a public area. They have traditionally been used to protest nuclear proliferation and, more recently, the war in Iraq. Die-ins take a stand for animals, whose suffering is invisible and publicly denied.
Die-ins can be done in coordination with an information table and/or video screening. Speakers are encouraged as well, and speakers should have a script that includes animal death statistics. The amount of lay-down time will vary from about 5-30 minutes. During the die-in itself, there may be silence, though somber music can play, and a bell can ring periodically to signal a specific number of dead animals. Speakers may want a megaphone or bullhorn.

Consider dress code, body positioning, and hand positioning. Wearing all black is appropriate. FARM's "Stop the Slaughter" shirt is available at the FARM Store. Hands and bodies can be free form, or bodies can be in patterns and hands can be sprawled or over chests. Be careful not to look like a sleep-in!

It is helpful to have a dropping and standing strategy. If necessary, determine and mark positions before the event. Will participants drop and rise together, or one at a time? Does each participant represent a number of slaughtered animals, or will the amount of lay-down time represent that? Ensure that participants know dropping and standing cues. Email instructions to participants ahead of time, if possible.

Additional Ideas for Consideration:

Special effects: Participants may want to wear fake blood, animal costumes, or animal face masks.

Location: Choose a location with symbolic meaning for animals and/or lots of visibility. Remember to consider parking and other logistics for your participants.

Civil disobedience: Blocking a side-walk or entrance will draw additional attention, but do so with caution. For more info, see our guide to civil disobedience.

Great add-ons:

- Bring signs and/or make posters.
- Bring vegan snacks to share with participants and visitors.
- Do a march or walk.
- Do your speech as a eulogy for the animals.

Contact us if you'd like to discuss more details.