Animal Equality activists win Cincinnati court battle against restrictions on Kroger protests

Animal Equality is celebrating a significant victory for the right to protest following a court hearing on October 30 involving nine animal protection activists arrested at Kroger’s Cincinnati headquarters on September 23.

Kroger supported restrictions on Cincinnati protests

Kroger explicitly and openly supported the City of Cincinnati’s efforts to prevent protesters from demonstrating on public sidewalks outside its headquarters. However, defense counsel successfully challenged the proposed restrictions, asserting that peaceful protest on public sidewalks is protected by the First Amendment.

This is a victory for animals, protesters, and the fundamental right to free speech. While Kroger supports efforts to restrict constitutionally protected protests, we will continue exposing the cruelty of cages. Kroger cannot silence the suffering of millions of hens, and it cannot silence those speaking on their behalf.” — Sharon Núñez, President of Animal Equality

Hearing follows September 23 protest at Kroger headquarters

The hearing follows the September 23 peaceful demonstration, during which eight activists chained themselves to the entrance of Kroger’s corporate headquarters, while a ninth activist was arrested during the protest.

Today was a win, not just for our clients, but for freedom of speech in general. As the judge very appropriately stated, any restriction on their right to be present on a public sidewalk is a blatant intrusion on every citizen’s right to protest, speak freely, and express their views. Every citizen of Cincinnati should feel free to speak their mind and protest anything they object to,” — Paul Laufman, attorney for the defendants

The demonstration was part of Animal Equality’s ongoing international campaign demanding that Kroger honor its original commitment to eliminate eggs from caged hens.

Animal Equality’s Kroger cage-free campaign continues

Animal Equality has organized more than 100 public actions and protests calling on Kroger to honor its cage-free commitment. Despite repeated requests, Kroger has not agreed to meet with the organization to establish a clear path toward ending cages.

Kroger should spend less time trying to stop people from speaking and more time fulfilling its promise to end cages. We are ready to meet with Kroger at any time. Until then, our campaign will continue.” — Sharon Núñez, President of Animal Equality

Animal Equality will continue its demonstrations in Cincinnati and internationally, demanding accountability from Kroger and an end to the confinement of hens in cages.

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