Blog

Animal Rights Coalition•News

Macalester Alum Dr. Neal Barnard Sues College Over Use of Live Animals in Labs

Dr. Neal Barnard—Macalester College alum, physician, and President of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)—filed a lawsuit Tuesday, June 3rd, in Hennepin County District Court against his alma mater, accusing the school of misleading the public about its use of animals in undergraduate labs.

The lawsuit claims that Macalester continues to use live mice and rats in psychology lab courses, despite stating on its website that it adheres to ethical animal welfare standards. Dr. Barnard says he learned of these ongoing practices while helping to plan and raise funds for his 50th class reunion, which took place on Friday, June 6.

Barnard is demanding that Macalester either stop using animals when non-animal alternatives are available or remove public claims suggesting that the school upholds high ethical standards in its treatment of animals. If not, he wants the college to return his $100 donation and is seeking a court declaration that Macalester is in violation of Minnesota law for misrepresenting its practices online.

This lawsuit is part of a broader shift in academic science: no medical schools in the U.S. or Canada currently use animals in their teaching curriculum. “If [Macalester officials] go to court and say, ‘We have stopped all of this,’ the lawsuit will be mooted out,” Barnard said. “If they do anything else, they’ve got a fight on their hands.”

Take Action
Visit PCRM.org to learn more and send a message to Macalester College President Suzanne Rivera, urging the school to end its outdated and unnecessary use of animals in its psychology labs.

Full article in the Star Tribune:
Alum sues Macalester over animal cruelty concerns in lab experiments

Over Four Decades of Animal Advocacy

Learning lessons from the past is crucial for shaping our future. By delving into the rich history of the Animal Rights Coalition (ARC), we gain valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs that paved the way for today’s animal advocacy.

Understanding the mission and values that motivated the founders of ARC not only reminds us of their pioneering spirit but also reinforces the principles that continue to guide us today. Knowing our history helps us appreciate the depth and breadth of ARC’s impact and honors those who have led the way.

Read more about ARC’s trailblazing history advocating for animals: https://animalrightscoalition.com/history/

Killing for Conservation? The Myth Behind Duck Hunting’s “Green” Image

In the article, “In Midwest farm country, a tradition of duck hunting has healed the dried-out landscape” (4/13/25), the Star Tribune offers yet another attempt to dress up recreational hunting in the trappings of environmental stewardship and cultural tradition. This piece, like many before it, seeks to paint duck hunters as accidental conservationists—heroes who just happen to enjoy killing animals while restoring wetlands.

We are told that duck hunting “has healed the dried-out landscape,” as if the primary goal of these hunters was ecological restoration rather than bagging a limit of ducks. The story leans heavily on the idea that hunting has played a role in preserving habitat, yet barely pauses to consider the ethical contradiction of celebrating the protection of nature by way of destroying the lives of the beings who live in it.

Once again, the real narrative is obscured by a litany of familiar excuses. Hunting, we are told, is not about the killing—it’s about tradition, connection to the land, multigenerational bonding, and the “thrill of the chase.” Somehow, the bloodshed at the heart of it all remains peripheral, if it’s acknowledged at all.

But if the act of killing truly is incidental, as hunters so often claim, then why insist on pulling the trigger? Why not simply restore wetlands, watch the ducks, and leave the guns at home? Why is the death of the animal always part of the ritual, even as its importance is downplayed?

The truth is, no amount of camouflage and conservation talk can disguise what duck hunting really is: the recreational killing of animals. And perhaps what’s most telling is how much effort goes into denying that simple fact.

There may be water in the marshes again—but there’s still blood in the water.

Victory! SeaQuest Roseville is Closed!

We did it—SeaQuest Roseville is officially shut down! On Tuesday, February 18th, SeaQuest Roseville closed its doors for good. Not shockingly, staff were only notified the night before at 6:00 PM that they were out of jobs and that the location would be closing. Given the company’s disregard for both employees and animals, public concern remains high for the wellbeing of those still inside. Fortunately, as reported by Eric Rasmussen (KSTP) on the February 24th evening news, staff remain on-site to care for the animals while the Association of Zoos and Aquariums works with SeaQuest to rehome them. Follow Sink SeaQuest Roseville for more news and updates on the animals. 

This victory wouldn’t have been possible without the relentless efforts of so many individuals and organizations. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to:

  • Our incredible ARC volunteers—your dedication and advocacy made a real impact!
  • The whistleblowers who courageously shared crucial information.
  • Eric Rasmussen (KSTP) for his investigative reporting and continued coverage.
  • Stop SeaQuest Minnesota, PETA, Humane World for Animals (formerly HSUS – Humane Society of the United States), Minnesota Federated, and countless others who stood up and spoke out against SeaQuest’s exploitation.

We also want to give a special shoutout to those fighting to shut down the remaining SeaQuest locations in New Jersey, Nevada, Utah, and California. You can stay updated and support their work by following Revolution Philadelphia, Uncle Neil’s Home (A Farm Sanctuary), Stop SeaQuest Woodbridge, and Stop The Quest.

Dairy-Free Future Day at the MN State Capitol

Join community members at the MN State Capitol to share our concerns with representatives about the harm the dairy industry causes our health, the animals, and our planet. We’ll meet outside of the Capitol to distribute educational literature to those entering and leaving the building. Individuals can also drop information off to their representatives as appointments may not be available.
 
With the rapid spread of H5N1 bird flu through dairy herds, epidemiologists and other infectious disease experts are warning of the coming zoonotic pandemic. 61 people in the United States have contracted H5N1.
 
Sixty-five percent of the global population is lactose intolerant.
 
Animal rights advocates continue to remind the public that the dairy industry is unethical and unnecessary, causing harm to cows and their offspring.
 
Runoff from MN dairy farms is contaminating groundwater and surface water with nitrates from manure and fertilizer. In 2023 the EPA estimated that nearly 10,000 people in southern Minnesota had water supplies contaminated by hazardous nitrates. The dairy industry is horrible for our environment.
 
𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 𝗨𝗣 𝗧𝗢 𝗩𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗘𝗥: https://dash.pointapp.org/events/263188

No Pardon for Tom the Turkey

A twenty-two-week-old turkey named Tom was put on display at the Minnesota State Capitol just days before Thanksgiving, in a mockery of the Presidential Turkey Pardon tradition. While the pardon is a symbolic gesture, Governor Tim Walz’s statement that “this turkey is not pardoned from its fate” highlights the grim reality faced by so many turkeys this time of year—regardless of any ceremonial gestures.

Tom, bred by Paisley VonBerge, a high school senior from Hutchinson, Minnesota, as part of the Future Farmers of America program, was destined to be slaughtered for her family’s consumption. “After today, this turkey will go back to my farm to be enjoyed the way turkeys were intended to be enjoyed,” VonBerge said, reinforcing the troubling view that animals like Tom are commodities to be used for human purposes.

Governor Walz’s dismissive attitude toward animal rights is evident in his treatment of his daughter Hope, a vegetarian. During a 2024 Minnesota State Fair interview, when Hope declined his suggestion to eat a corndog, he proposed eating a turkey instead. Again Hope rejected eating an animal and he dismissed her by saying, “Not in Minnesota. Turkey’s special.” This exchange reflects the broader disregard for animal rights among those in power.

Whether pardoned or slaughtered, these rituals of celebration and consumption fail to recognize the inherent value of sentient beings. Tom’s story serves as a stark reminder that behind every holiday tradition and meal, there is a life—one that is often treated as insignificant in the pursuit of human enjoyment.

Take a Peek: Our Redesigned Website is Here!

We’re excited to announce the launch of our brand-new, easy-to-navigate website! Designed with you in mind, our updated site makes it easier than ever to stay connected and take action for animals. Here’s what you can do:

  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news, updates, and insights by exploring our regularly updated blog.
  • Never Miss an Event: Check out our calendar to stay on top of all ARC events.
  • Get Updates: Sign up for our monthly newsletter and volunteer email list to stay in the loop on ARC news and upcoming events. 
  • Take Action: Link to our Volunteer Network or POINT to sign up for exciting volunteer opportunities that make a real difference.
  • Learn More: Dive deeper into our programs and campaigns to see how we’re advocating for animals and their rights. 
  • Support Our Work: Make a donation to help us continue fighting for animal rights and building a community of changemakers.
  • And So Much More: Explore resources and discover ways to get involved!

This is more than just a website—it’s your hub for being part of the ARC movement. We’re thrilled to have you along for the journey and can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together!

Check it out now: https://animalrightscoalition.com/

SeaQuest Fort Worth Has Closed!

We’re thrilled to announce that SeaQuest Fort Worth has closed its doors! However, at this time, we do not have information on the future of the animals at this location. We sincerely hope SeaQuest will collaborate with animal advocates and sanctuaries to ensure safe, caring placements for these animals.

Currently, five SeaQuest locations remain open: Roseville, MN; Folsom, CA; Woodbridge, NJ; Las Vegas, NV; and Layton, UT. Earlier this year, SeaQuest Littleton, CO shut down, following closures in Connecticut and Georgia in 2023.

Many remaining SeaQuest locations are under investigation, including SeaQuest Roseville, which has accrued nearly 100 violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Recent USDA inspection reports, now publicly available, reveal ongoing welfare concerns. SeaQuest Roseville only recently established a formal agreement with an attending veterinarian (AV), a critical requirement absent since April. The USDA’s August 5th, 2024 inspection report states, “One of the two pigs housed in the enclosure has long hooves with mild outward curving causing splaying and abnormal positioning of the toes. Excessively grown hooves can result in abnormal weight distribution and eventually lead to discomfort, pain, and lameness.” Although the welfare of these animals is of high concern, it is in their best interest to live free from exploitation in a sanctuary setting. While the most recent report doesn’t mention the pigs, we remain hopeful that their welfare needs, along with those of other animals, are being addressed.

Let’s Sink SeaQuest Roseville! Connect with us on Facebook, join our protests, sign the petition, and reach out if you’re a former SeaQuest employee or Roseville resident interested in helping out.

Upcoming Protest Dates:

Send Jeanie, Krissy, and Paige to Sanctuary!

Jeanie, Krissy, and Paige, the elephants exploited by Trunks and Humps (also known as East Texas Elephant Experience), are forced to travel from event to event for brief moments of human “entertainment.” These magnificent animals deserve so much more. They deserve to live in a true sanctuary, free from exploitation and the constant threat of harm.

Many people may feel excited about the chance to interact with exotic animals at fairs, but if they understood the reality, they might think twice. These elephants endure long hours of confinement, often chained and transported in cramped trailers across the country. In their natural habitats, they would roam freely, form deep social bonds, and travel great distances every day. Instead, they are reduced to walking in endless circles, burdened with heavy loads, day after day.

Beyond the ethical concerns, these attractions pose serious public safety risks. Wild animals like elephants are often coerced into submission through cruel training methods. In some cases, they reach a breaking point, resisting their handlers and retaliating. Additionally, elephants carry a strain of tuberculosis (TB) that can be transmitted to humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledges this risk, yet many companies neglect proper TB testing due to its cost and complexity.

Despite the clear dangers and cruelty, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival continues to offer these exploitative rides. It’s time to act.

Take Action:

Together, we can stand up for these animals and promote animal-free festival activities!

ARC Partners Nationwide to Advocate for Animals at State Fairs

We have exciting news! This year ARC is partnering with a coalition of other organizations across the country to expose cruelty to animals at state and county fairs. We launched the MNfairwatch website last year and are continuing to build on our advocacy for animals such as dairy cows being exploited at the MN State Fair.

We will have a tent right outside the fairgrounds facing the main entrance for all 12 days of the fair’s run. This is a huge opportunity for volunteers to help educate the public about what animals endure before, during,, and after they are at the fairgrounds, and provide resources to opt out of the exploitation and death of sentient beings that occurs at the fair. 

We broke each day up into 3 shifts:
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Register to volunteer with ARC at the State Fair now by visiting us on POINT. It’s important to sign up correctly so we can update you if there are any event changes. If you have any questions, reach out to our Outreach Manager, Kelsey.