George Tiller shooting prompts PETA ad campaign in Wichita

A national animal rights group plans to erect billboards in Wichita urging people on both sides of the abortion debate to go vegetarian.

One version of the billboard says, "Pro-Life? Go Vegetarian." The other says, "Pro-Choice? Choose Vegetarian." Both feature a photo of three baby chicks.

Lindsay Rajt, campaign manager for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said the billboards were prompted by the recent shooting death of abortion doctor George Tiller, who was killed Sunday at his church.

"The discussion of the value of life is front and center right now in the public conversation," Rajt said.

"We think we would be irresponsible if we don't talk about how we're all guilty of extreme cruelty to animals every time we sit down to a meal that includes meat."

Rajt said her group contacted Wichita-area billboard companies Tuesday but was waiting to hear back about availability. She did not know where or when the billboards would be posted.

The Virginia-based group opposes eating animals or using any animal byproducts. It also opposes animal testing, hunting, fishing and factory farming.

PETA has been criticized for the style and content of its campaigns, including a 2003 "Holocaust on Your Plate" exhibition, which juxtaposed images of the Holocaust with images of factory farming.

News of the group's plans in Wichita drew fierce response from many in the community Tuesday. Some who posted comments to a story on Kansas.com called the campaign tasteless and opportunistic; others urged Wichitans to ask billboard companies to reject the PETA billboards.

"How long was PETA hoping for a doctor to get killed to get these signs up?" wrote one person.

Rajt said the timing or content of the billboards may be controversial. But as of late Tuesday, her group had no plans to cancel the campaign.

"If our billboards leave a bad taste in anyone's mouth, we just think they might give a thought to what animals feel when they go to the slaughterhouse," she said.

"While our hearts go out to the family and friends of George Tiller, we are hoping that these billboards will make those who are rightly shocked by his murder sit up and realize that behind closed doors, millions of animals are suffering every day, and that we as individuals can help to reduce the amount of violence and suffering in the world."

Sooo you go vegetarian either way???
Der Der

PETA wishes Obama hadn't swatted that fly... need I say more *facepalm*

Peta needs to tell that to all thoses poor little babies in thoses countries where their dying from hunger and sickness. You know, the ones we've all seen on Tv where there's at least 2 or 3 flies flying and crawling around on their faces. Some flies bite too.

I don't believe in "pulling the wings off insects", but to swat a fly? He was swift and merciful. (((SWAP!))) And compassionate.

Too bad we don't have a facepalm smiley....

Someone must have read your post! -(Might be more around.)

Obama Kills Fly: Ninja REMIX! !

PETA really dont do themselves any favours do they??

You mentioning that makes me wonder if they keep up with the way they're going, if they don't end up losing supporters to their group. I can just see some branching off from them and starting another group that's more umm.... well when they start mentioning not swatting mosquitos...

Haha excellent point Raven!!!!

OOooOOoo they really should be asked that!

ANDY d**k PLAYS BLOODY RONALD MCDONALD IN PETA PROTEST

Good ol' PETA.

PETA adds opinion to fair's buttery saga

I have to step in and say this. I am an animal rights activist and vegan. But I absolutely ABHOR PETA. I think we all agree that they are one of the most immature rights groups in the popular media. They are an embarrassment to all people who care for animals and are or are interested in the vegan lifestyle.

I would go so far as to say this: I usually don't play into conspiracy theories, but in my heart, I feel that this horrible organization is backed by people who care nothing for animals and want to make animal rights activists seem crazy. I mean, honestly, when I say "animal rights activist," doesn't it sorta make you cringe and roll your eyes? It's groups like PETA that make this impression on people. I am a great person that cares for ALL sentient beings. I would never take advantage of someone's death to get my message across. Human are animals, too!

Sorry if I seem very emotional about this, but I feel it is so important that people know that PETA is not the face of the vegetarian and animal rights community. They are a disgrace and I hope (even if you aren't into all that) that my sentiments here will make an impression with you and just let the word spread that our causes are not about crazy publicity stunts and media attention.

If you're interested at all in what I mean, please check out two things: The China Study by T. Colin Campbell and cok.net--a REAL, good-doing, non-crazy animal rights group I've supported for years.

Thanks for reading my rant guys, I know that if anyone would listen it's all of you.