Readers’ Responses: “What Should We Say to Fur Wearers?”
The News
Hundreds of readers took the time to post comments on the article “What Should We Say to People Wearing Fur?” This post summarizes the feedback – in case it’s useful, inspiring or, at the very least, interesting.
The suggestions varied widely, but most could be filed under one of two approaches: measured or confrontational. Each approach has its merits, though some snarky one liners like “Bitch” or “Fur hag” probably do less to help the animals than to satisfy us in the moment.
Among the measured suggestions that were shared more than once are the following:
“Thank you for wearing fake fur.” (even if it’s real)
“Fur looks most beautiful on its original owner.”
“Is that fur real? Do you know where it comes from?” (This question opens up the possibility for a dialog.)
The confrontational suggestions were more varied. Following are a couple of standouts:
“Do you know how many innocent animals had to die so you could wear that?”
“How can you stand the cries of the tortured animals?”
“Do you know your coat was made by skinning the animals while they were still alive?”
Khloe Kardashian’s approach to protesting fur
Several readers who may or may not be activists said, “Don’t say anything. It’s none of your business.” One reader wrote, “If the person is older than 70, leave her alone.”
Others, who clearly are activists, suggested a menacing approach: “They should be followed and yelled at so that they feel unsafe wearing the skins of tortured animals.” Another reader suggested action, albeit unrealistic, instead of words: “Tie them down and force them to watch videos of animals being tortured.”
A few readers expressed discomfort with fake fur alternatives on the grounds that “it still makes the fashion more popular” or “it glamorizes the idea of wearing an animal.”
The “I am an asshole. I wear fur” stickers mentioned in the article received a mixed response. A few readers asked where they could get them. Another reader, however, had a visceral reaction and, ironically, gave the kind of combative response that she herself opposes:
When it comes to fur, passions run high – higher than they do on most other animal rights issues. Perhaps that can be attributed to the fact that fur is so gratuitous. As activists say – or shout – at the protests, “Stop the insanity. No blood for vanity.”
I like the stickers just fine! And the shaming too. Another approach
is total honesty…I said this to a customer who was wearing fur the other day: “Seeing a jacket like that just breaks my heart. Those poor
innocent animals….tortured” That’s all I said. She looked stunned and hurt, took her change and left. I probably lost a customer but at least hopefully made her think….I mean if it makes you sad…don’t be afraid to show it.
First of all, Donny Moss is very good for the animal rights movement. He is very dedicated to the issues concerning animal rights and has worked long and tirelessly for the animals, more than can be said for some of the critics.
I do believe in taking it up a step when it comes to animal abusers and people who are just so self centered that they couldn’t care less how much the animals suffer. I like the sticker idea. It’s much better than dumping paint on someone’s coat. Not that I would ever feel sorry for a fur wearer but damaging their coats might invoke sympathy in others and give credence to the people who say that animal rights people are nutty and dangerous. Also, you can get arrested and sued for damaging property. A sticker, on the other hand, makes the point very well, and you can’t be accused of damaging anything.
I’d like some of those stickers, I hope I have the nerve to use them!
By the way, my approach usually is to get close to the person and say something like “Oh No! That’s horrible! My God!” or “Oh no! she’s wearing real fur! Yuck!” The person knows I mean them.
Does any rational thinking person really believe that insulting people who wear fur will get them to our side? Donny Moss is absolutely dangerous for the animal movement. Not only does he offend – and keep those people as determined enemies – but those people who, up to the point of reading Donny Moss’ stupidity was neutral or undecided about fur, will also go against fur activists. Terry sensibly wrote:”… but damaging their coats might invoke sympathy in others and give credence to the people who say that animal rights people are nutty and dangerous.” Inane Donny Moss has undoubtedly lost for the animals many people who might have seen our side and joined us.
It’s definitely an individual thing based on what someone feels most comfortable doing. To say Donny Moss is bad for the animal movement is ridiculous and has little merit. His approach is unique to him just like everyone else.