Dear Wildlife Supporter,
Two decades ago the world came together to “Save the Whales.” Thanks to public outcry across the planet, commercial whaling was banned, giving the world’s largest creatures a chance to recover from the brink of extinction.
But now, whales are once again facing danger on the high seas. Japan is poised to increase “scientific” whaling and push to overturn the 20-year-old whaling ban altogether.
Take action now. Write to the White House and tell them to step up pressure on Japan to stop whaling. Help us reach our goal of 25,000 comments by this Thursday!
Starting this Friday, the International Whaling Commission -- the body that regulates whaling -- will meet and discuss Japan’s proposals. The country is using economic aid to effectively buy votes to expand their hunts and overturn the whaling ban. Only diplomatic pressure with real consequences can make a difference.
Write to the White House and urge officials to oppose Japan's permanent membership on the UN Security Council until Japan complies with international laws for the protection of whales.
Your comments will be most effective if they are personalized. Tell officials why it is important to you that they do everything they can to save these magnificent animals.
Despite worldwide outcry, Japan continues to kill whales, saying it’s for “scientific” purposes -- even though scientists agree that there’s no need to kill whales in order to study them. Whale meat from these kills is then sold in supermarkets, restaurants and even school cafeterias.
And the kills are increasing. This year, Japan has killed more than 860 whales in the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary -- nearly twice as many as last year. Now Japan wants to target species decimated during the peak of commercial whaling:
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Humpbacks: known for their haunting melodic songs. |
Fin whales: The second largest whale in the world and internationally recognized as endangered. |
Sperm whales: The largest of the toothed whales. |
The world’s whales are increasingly threatened by global warming, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and being struck by ships. Increased whaling would only make things worse for these magnificent creatures -- some of which haven’t fully recovered from decades of unchecked killing.
Our whales need your help now! Write to the White House -- tell the U.S. government to take a firm stand against Japan’s whaling today! Help us submit 25,000 comments by this Thursday! Remember, personalized comments are the most effective way of getting your message heard. Tell officials why it is important to you that they do everything they can to save our whales.
After being hunted to the brink of extinction, the planet’s whales deserve a chance at full recovery. With your help, we can ensure protection for years to come.
Sincerely,
Rodger Schlickeisen
President
Defenders of Wildlife |
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