7 October 2017, thousands of people gathered in more than 100 cities all over the world to show solidarity with wildlife in the Global March for Elephants, Rhinos, and Lions. This year’s theme ‘Justice for All’ draws attention to the dire threat to these species as a result of international wildlife crime.
In the UK, the event took place in Parliament Square, London. 30 minutes of silence was observed, along with the sound of an African drumbeat, as people stood in a diamond formation holding artificial rhino horns and elephant tusks. The previous day, plans were unveiled by the Government for a total UK ivory ban.
SPEECHES BY
Dan Richardson – Patron – Born Free Foundation
Sangita Iyer – Founder Voice for Asian Elephants Society, HAWO Animal Welfare Board of India
Executive Producer/Director at Gods In Shackles
Rory Young – Chengeta Wildlife
Will Travers – Born Free Foundation
Duncan McNair – Save The Asian Elephants
PRESS
”Gods in Shackles is a feature-length documentary film, an exposé revealing the dark side of the southern Indian state of Kerala’s glamorous cultural festivals that exploit temple elephants for profit under the guise of culture and religion. By exposing the abhorrent torture suffered by India’s heritage animal, Gods in Shackles offers hope to the thousands of endangered captive and wild elephants in India through heightened awareness that will inspire key stake holders and policy makers to enhance the living conditions of these highly social animals.- Sangita Iyer
Photos (c) Jo Phillips : Bottom pic – J Downey
