Why Alicia Silverstone Says NO to Animal Dissection: A Parent’s Guide
Nearly 30 years after actor and PETA honorary board member Alicia Silverstone first teamed up with PETA to encourage students to “cut out” animal dissection, she’s back—now joined by her son, Bear—for a new anti-dissection campaign. Their mission is to give students and parents the lowdown on why animal dissection is, like, totally uncool—and downright cruel!
In the U.S., an estimated 10 million animals—including frogs, cats, and fetal pigs—are dissected every year. They’re often obtained from facilities that breed animals solely for dissection or tear them away from their homes in nature, just so they can be cut open and then thrown in the trash. Studies have repeatedly shown that virtual dissection and other animal-free methods are more humane and effective tools for teaching and learning biology.
There are plenty of modern, humane dissection options. Students who use three-dimensional models or computer programs can repeat the lesson until they’ve mastered it, sparing countless animals’ lives and achieving a deeper understanding of biology.
“Dissection is the only thing we ask our kids to do in school that we would be disturbed to find out they were doing outside of school.”
—Alicia Silverstone
The negative impact of animal dissection extends beyond the classroom. Studies suggest that it can desensitize students to the suffering of sentient beings and even dissuade some from pursuing careers in science.
It’s time for higher educational standards that prioritize kindness and empathy while also achieving superior academic outcomes. Parents, listen up: It’s our responsibility to advocate for the well-being of our kids and our fellow animals, including those who suffer in the name of dissection. By objecting to animal dissection, urging schools to adopt humane and technologically advanced options, and supporting legislation that promotes animal-free teaching methods, we can help create a more compassionate and successful learning environment for all.
‘Cut Class, Not Frogs!’
Alicia and Bear aren’t just talkin’ the talk—they’re walkin’ the walk. By speaking out against animal dissection, they’re demonstrating compassion in action. We can all do the same by rejecting cruel practices and embracing humane options, helping to create a brighter and more ethical future for students and animals. Let’s empower our kids to make compassionate choices.
Start by talking with your kid(s) about their right to opt out. Many states and provinces allow students to say NO to classroom dissection and to ask for humane options. And even if your state or province doesn’t require that students be given a humane option, you can still request one. If your kid’s teacher or school is pushing back, know your rights! Feel free to e-mail us at [email protected] for more assistance.
We’ve all got the power to help change the world—one frog at a time.
Under 13? Ask your parents bee-fore you continue!