June 12, 2009

Dear Colleagues,

Many of you are already aware of the controversy surrounding the inclusion of a motivational presentation by the Pike Place Fish Market during the Opening Ceremony at the upcoming AVMA Convention. Briefly, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) initiated a media campaign to protest the use of real fish during this event. They have openly declared that they will continue their media campaign and will publicly protest during the convention if the AVMA does not cancel the event or substitute fake fish.

As AVMA leadership discussed the issue and our options, we received input from a number of animal welfare and scientific experts, as well as AVMA councils and committees. We have received feedback from members expressing support as well as opposition to the inclusion of this presentation, and this feedback was considered during our discussions. All factors were thoroughly weighed when the decision was being made.

To that end, the AVMA has chosen to continue with the presentation as it was originally designed, using real fish.

Although the Pike Place Fish Market program uses fish during the presentation, they are not alive. The presentation is designed to be motivational and educational, and focuses on team building and developing and maintaining positive workplace attitudes. In addition, Pike Place Fish Market is a cultural icon in Seattle and sets a high standard for community outreach efforts; it was for these reasons the presentation was initially selected as a feature of the Opening Ceremony. It is for these same reasons we reaffirmed our commitment to the presentation.

We feel strongly that the protest is little more than an attempt by PETA to garner media attention to fuel their campaigns against the fishing and agricultural industries. There is no doubt that PETA's fundamental philosophy differs greatly from that of the AVMA; in short, PETA opposes all human use of animals, whereas the AVMA supports the responsible use of animals for human purposes. As we reviewed the Pike Place Fish Market presentation materials, we determined the program falls within AVMA guidelines and policies. In addition, the input received from experts, councils and committees indicated the majority opposed responding to PETA's demands by cancelling or altering the program.

The AVMA has been, and will continue to be, involved in international dialog regarding animal welfare issues, including those associated with aquatic animals. In fact, the convention educational program includes sessions discussing science and welfare issues as they pertain to aquatic animals.

As always, the AVMA will continue to work to advance the art and science of veterinary medicine and to promote and protect the interests of all veterinarians. We hope you will join us in our common goals.

Sincerely,

Your AVMA Executive Board