Washington, D.C. voters have an historic chance to ban the horrific cruelty of foie gras on November 3rd. A yes vote would end the vicious force-feeding of birds to enlarge their livers for foie gras. Help make Washington, D.C. a leader in protecting animals and inspire other cities and countries to take action. Vote yes on Initiative 86, and spread the word to other D.C. residents!

Foie gras involves the force-feeding of ducks and geese, and other birds, using tubes or pipes with large quantities of food that are shoved down their throats, often 3 times a day. The force-feeding is done to enlarge their livers, up to ten times their normal size. That swelled and diseased liver of a slaughtered bird is sold as the “delicacy” known as foie gras.

This violent ordeal can also cause difficulty breathing, serious injuries, and illness. Investigative undercover footage reveals time and again the cruelty the birds endure. They are also often crammed into tiny cages, living in misery and fear of being grabbed for the next force-feeding session. In most cases, they are denied their natural behaviors of swimming, flying, and freely moving their wings. Many have no access to sunlight, except for seeing it briefly while being transported to a slaughterhouse. 

The growing fight against foie gras cruelty is making an impact worldwide. More than 20 countries have banned the force-feeding of birds for foie gras. California and several U.S. cities have also passed laws restricting it, including Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Brookline, Massachusetts; and, most recently, Portland, Oregon. New York City has passed a ban, yet the New York Attorney General is currently seeking to overturn it. Legislation is also proposed in New Jersey.

Voting Yes on Initiative 86 would ban force-feeding birds to enlarge their livers and prohibit the sale, distribution, and import of products resulting from it. 

Exposing and ending this one form of torture helps bring the suffering of farmed animals to light. In solidarity with Pro-Animal DC and other organizations working to end foie gras cruelty, join us in building a world where ducks, geese, and all animals are respected as individuals and free from human-inflicted suffering, exploitation, and killing. Banning foie gras can serve as a catalyst to awaken the public to the inherent cruelties of all animal farming and slaughterhouses. 

Washington, D.C. is one of the leading U.S. cities for foie gras consumption; let’s change that dubious distinction. Please vote Yes on Initiative 86, and spread the word to strengthen the case for the rights of all animals to be free from exploitation.

Urge the New York Attorney General to stop blocking New York City’s foie gras ban here.