ARC’s 2025 Minnesota State Fair Activism Recap: Shutting Down the “Miracle of Birth” Center (MOBC)
For five powerful days leading up to and during the Minnesota State Fair, Animal Rights Coalition activists took bold, creative, and compassionate action to expose the reality behind the fair’s exploitation of animals—especially those confined and used in the Miracle of Birth Center, where each year, nearly 200 baby animals, including piglets, lambs, and calves, are born in front of large crowds at the fair. Many animals are induced to give birth on schedule, and mother-newborn separation is common. This exhibit reduces birth to a spectacle without regard for the comfort and safety of the mothers and their offspring and exploits these animals for entertainment.
From chalktivism to banner drops, community outreach to costumed protests (special thanks to our spirited cow mascot, SoyMilk Suzy!), this year’s campaign was our largest and most impactful yet. We handed out a record number of leaflets and sparked countless meaningful conversations with fairgoers about the truth behind the fair’s portrayal of animal agriculture.
Here’s what our activism looked like:
Sidewalk Chalk Outreach
The day before the fair opened, activists filled the sidewalks with thought-provoking messages, quotes, and images—reaching fairgoers before they even stepped inside. Many of these chalk messages lasted throughout the entire fair, spreading awareness to thousands.
Protests & Literature Distribution
Outside the main gates, activists held signs, shared literature, and engaged with attendees to share our message: “MN Fair = Not Fair.” Many people stopped to learn more or voiced their agreement that the Miracle of Birth Center is a heartbreaking place for both visitors and animals.
Bridge Banner Drop
A massive six-foot banner was displayed multiple times over Highway 94, catching the eyes of rush-hour commuters and urging the public to end animal exploitation at the fair. Nearby, activists used chalk to spread positive, awareness-raising messages throughout the area.
Vibrant Costumes & Visuals
Our iconic cow mascot, SoyMilk Suzy, brought energy and visibility to our cause—drawing attention to the suffering of mother cows and their babies in the dairy industry.
Our message remains clear and unwavering: it’s time to close the Miracle of Birth Center. This deceptive exhibit normalizes animal suffering and commodification for entertainment. Birth should never be a spectacle.
We’re deeply grateful to every activist who showed up, chalked a message, held a sign, started a conversation, or stood in the heat for the animals. Together, we’re creating a future where no animal is bred, confined, or displayed for human profit.
Learn more about this ongoing campaign and how to get involved at MNFairWatch.Org.