As a concerned citizen, I find it unsettling knowing that my family and I may be living next door to someone who inflicts extreme harm on innocent animals. This is not merely a personal paranoia, but a matter of public safety.

Those involved in animal slaughter can easily blend into our society unnoticed. These individuals, who are accustomed to violence towards defenseless animals, can potentially pose a risk to our safety. Such fears are not entirely unfounded. Studies have shown a correlation between animal cruelty and acts of violence towards humans, which includes domestic violence (Ascione, F. R., Weber, C. V., & Wood, D. S., 1997. The Abuse of Animals and Domestic Violence: A National Survey of Shelters for Women). This brings us to question - if we are vigilant about our safety, then why aren't we questioning who these people could be?

This is why we call upon our local government to establish a mandatory registry for anyone who works in a slaughterhouse. Just as it is necessary for sex offenders to be on a register for public protection, the same should apply to those who have previously or are currently working in a slaughterhouse. This is not about tarnishing a person’s reputation, but about ensuring the safety of our children and our community.

The public has a right to know about potential safety threats in our midst. With your signature, we can make our neighborhoods safer. Please sign our petition today and push for this necessary change.