San Francisco is on its way to becoming the first major U.S. city and the third city in California to prohibit the sale of new fur. West Hollywood was the pioneer in 2013, and Berkley’s ban went into effect last year. While this would not apply to second hand fur (with the exception of endangered animals), it would still be a major win for animal rights.  

Wayne Hsiung, co-founder of animal rights organization Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), states that the ban in San Francisco will be symbolic since “St. Francis — for whom the city is named — is the patron saint of animals.”

Sponsored by Supervisor Katy Tang with support from animal activist groups such as DxE and PETA, many have rallied to have this legislation taken into consideration. The vote by the Board of Supervisors is set to take place on February 20th. Should it pass, the law is expected to go into effect January 1, 2019.

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The demand to end the cruelty behind the fur farming industry is becoming a global movement. January 2018 saw a ban from Norway that will result in over 300 fur farms being shut down and nearly 1 million animals being spared. The United Kingdom, Austria, and the Czech Republic are among many other countries that have put an end to fur farms.

First step, San Francisco. Next step, California. Soon after, the world.

There is still time to get involved by signing the petition and showing your support!

Photo Credit: @directactioneverywhere