As soccer fans arrived at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia to watch a FIFA World Cup match, animal advocates from nine groups stood outside the stadium in protest, bringing attention to the brutal massacre of stray dogs in Morocco.
Courtesy of In Defense of Animals
Organized by Lady Freethinker, In Defense of Animals, Mobilization for Animals PA, Revolution Philadelphia, and other animal welfare groups, the peaceful demonstration gave voice to vulnerable dogs who are reportedly being poisoned, shot, and violently captured with clamps before being taken to slaughter facilities — all to “clean up” the streets ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
In a bold act of protest, an activist also stormed onto the field during the match, displaying a sign and wearing a shirt with messages that condemned the killings.
Courtesy of In Defense of Animals
“The Moroccan government must do the right thing and end the killing at once,” LFT Founder Nina Jackel said. “We’re calling on FIFA and its global partners to demand truth and compassion — not brutality masked as progress.”
Following its selection as a World Cup co-host, Morocco has allegedly escalated its mass slaughter of stray dogs, despite announcing a ban in August 2024. Additionally, children are sometimes witnesses to this horrific violence.
“Instead of partnering with local rescuers and accepting help from international rescue organizations, Morocco’s government is continuing its campaign of violence and propaganda,” In Defense of Animals Communications Director Fleur Dawes said. “Animal rescuers face beating, threats, and intimidation, while children are being psychologically scarred from witnessing the killings of their companions.”
With the world watching, FIFA must take a stand against cruelty — not turn a blind eye to it. If you haven’t already, please sign our petition today to demand an immediate end to Morocco’s extermination of stray dogs.
