Animal rights group PETA has opened up an intense debate on social media after calling out humans for using animal insults that “perpetuate speciesism”.
In a strongly worded social media post, PETA condemned the use of terms like “pig”, “chicken” and “rat” and demanded that we “stand up for justice” and stop using them.
They said in a tweet which now has over 18,400 replies:
“Words can create a more inclusive world, or perpetuate oppression. Calling someone an animal as an insult reinforces the myth that humans are superior to other animals & justified in violating them. Stand up for justice by rejecting supremacist language.”
“Anti-animal slurs degrade animals by applying negative human traits to certain species. Perpetuating the idea that animals are sly, dirty, or heartless desensitizes the public and normalizes violence against other animals.”
PETA added, “Speciesist language isn’t just harmful, but it is also inaccurate. Pigs, for instance, are intelligent, lead complex social lives, and show empathy for other pigs in distress. Snakes are clever, have family relationships, and prefer to associate with their relatives.”
“PETA urges everyone who believes in equality and justice to take a look at their personal beliefs and the language they use, and break free of this outdated mindset that denigrates other animals. Always be kind and consider not using insults at all.”
To help humans adapt to their new language rules, PETA suggested alternatives to the “speciesist” language.
For example, using “snitch” instead of “rat” or “repulsive” instead of pig.
PETA campaign for the ethical treatment of animals and often court controversy for their protests and graphic films.