The planet’s most abused animals can’t run or scream.

Fish are excluded from many animal protection laws and are exploited on a massive scale despite conclusive evidence that they feel pain. Factory farms imprison billions of them in filthy conditions while the commercial fishing industry kills trillions every year. Millions more die in laboratories, for blood sports like trophy fishing, and in underwater puppy mills.

On Saturday, August 1st, In Defense of Animals is coordinating a virtual day of action called Respect for Fish Day to raise awareness about the fact that fish are sentient and to reveal the ways in which they are abused. Respect for Fish Day seeks to inspire compassion for fish and lay a foundation for efforts to protect them. Over 240+ organizations are joining us on this national day of action and we invite you to join with us too. 

Sending a letter to the editor of your local newspaper by July 28 is the best way to participate. You can draft one yourself (see our guide) or we can provide you with a draft that’s ready to submit. To get your draft letter, please contact us and let us know your state city/town of residence so your letter can be customized.

You can also post on social media with the #Respect4Fish hashtag. If you are part of an organization, find out how you can make your organization an ally.

There will be no physical events this year due to safety concerns surrounding COVID-19.

For more information, please see Respect for Fish Day’s outreach brochure and participation guide or reach out to us by email.

We look forward to working with you and building a better future for our finned friends!