5 Ways to Protest Melbourne Cup Cruelty

So your office is running sweepstakes or you’ve got a compulsory day off work to “celebrate” a cruel horse race. What do you do?

Here are some ideas to help you speak up for animals during this Melbourne Cup:

1. Make a Gory Fascinator

If you love a crafternoon, this approach is for you. Grab an old hat or fascinator from an op shop and get creative. You never know what conversations your headwear will inspire. Make sure you take a selfie with said fascinator and upload it to all your socials with the hashtags #NupToTheCup and #YouBetTheyDie.

2. Bake a Cake With a (Not-So-)Hidden Message 

Cup day afternoon tea, anyone? Sometimes, the best way to people’s hearts is through their stomach. Invite them to have a piece of cake and hear the truth about horseracing.

3. Use Your Lunch Time to Invite People to ‘Change Your Mind’

You’ve seen activists like Earthling Ed set up tables in public places to encourage conversations about important issues, so if you are back working in the office, why not bring the idea to your desk? Arm yourself with the facts, and you’ll be surprised by the number of people who just don’t know what they’re supporting when they bet on a horse race.

4. Join a ‘Nup to the Cup’ Event

So you’re in Victoria and it’s a public holiday. Melbourne’s annual cup protest party, Farshuns on the Field, is always a good time! Other events and protests are happening across the country, so keep an eye on the registered events listed here.

5. Volunteer at an Animal Sanctuary

Parties or protests just not your thing? (We hear you, introverts!) There are sanctuaries across the country that are constantly cleaning up after the racing industry’s “wastage” problem, rescuing failed and former racehorses. Google horse rescues in your local area to see how you can help out.

Want to do more? Click the button below to join us in urging companies to stop sponsoring the Melbourne Cup.