Final signature count: 90,391

90,391 signatures toward our 100,000 goal

Every year on the Faroe Islands — a semi-autonomous country consisting of 18 islands off the coasts of Norway and Iceland — a barbaric whale massacre takes place. Hundreds of pilot whales are lured to the shallower waters of the Faroe Island bay, where they are then killed with knives. Locals slash and stab the whales’ outer skin until the surrounding waters turn red with their blood¹.

The annual Faroe Island whale slaughter, known as the grindadráp² or Grind, dates back to the medieval period and is steeped in tradition for the Faroese. Many people come from all over the world to watch the slaughter, and when it’s done, they eat the whales’ meat. Whatever is not consumed at the end of the slaughter is simply thrown away.

In previous years, an average of 1,500 whales and dolphins have been slaughtered in the event³.

The Faroese are all but decimating an entire species⁴ of precious marine mammals and it must be stopped now. Not only do these innocent whales need to be saved from slaughter, the hunt needs end to protect the health and lives of the Faroese themselves. High levels of mercury and heavy metal toxins in the whale meat can cause neurological damage, birth defects, and other harm⁵.

Whales are also social animals, which goes hand in hand with their intelligence. They live in structured groups, or pods, and work together for feeding, protection, and social interaction. These beautiful, precious marine mammals should never be murdered — they are far too intelligent, caring, and wonderful to be hunted for their meat. How could anyone do such a thing to a creature so smart and loving?

Not only do these innocent whales need to be saved from slaughter, the hunt needs end to protect the health and lives of the Faroese themselves. High levels of mercury and heavy metal toxins in the whale meat can cause neurological damage, birth defects, and other harm⁶.

It’s time for this barbaric tradition to come to an end. Sign the petition imploring Faroe Islands Prime Minister to put an end to this barbaric event once and for all!