Just Do It

Animal Rights Symposium

by Deesha Dyer

Sat., Sept. 15, Symposium, noon-6 p.m., free; Veggie Cabaret, 8-10 p.m., $15, The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., 215-620-2130, www.maarc.net

Philadelphia has plenty of animal lovers and vegetarians, but this doesn't mean we're prepared to advocate for animals. With its first-ever Animal Rights Symposium, the Mid-Atlantic Animal Rights Coalition is making sure the city knows how to aid and protect its friends in need.

"Unlike other animal conferences, this event will have no national groups represented and will only discuss issues of relevance to activist working at a community level,'' says MAARC member Bob Leonard. Composed of nine separate groups from Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, the 14-month-old organization seeks to inspire and organize activism at a grassroots level. Panels featuring MAARC and community members will have a free-flowing vibe with plenty of chances for interaction, including an open Q&A. The discussion will address issues such as our use of and attitude toward animals, as well as practical legal considerations and media relations skills. Although most of the day is about animal rights and protection, the symposium will also focus on a general theme of being an advocate for community and social activism. Vegan munchies and meals will also be available.

Following the symposium will be Veggie Cabaret, a Fringe production combining puppetry and music. Produced by Philadelphia group Public Eye: Artists for Animals and featuring cartoonist Dan Piraro (pictured), the show is designed for vegetarians (with a sense of humor) who have had to explain that chicken is, in fact, meat.