In June of 2015, on one of the hottest days during a massive heat wave in Toronto, Canada, a woman named Anita Krajnc gave water to some pigs that were currently on their way to slaughter. This simple act of compassion now has her facing a $5,000 fine and six months in prison for the interference of property.
In the video of this event, Anita is confronted by a man who appears to be the driver of the truck, who is understandably concerned about what she is giving the pigs. With the meat-packing industry highly controlled to provide meat that is not contaminated to the general public, the frustration is understandable. However, with the clear lack of criminal intent, many vegans (and non-vegans alike) are frustrated with the criminal process for this.
Primarily, it is a leap to assume that Krajnc would genuinely have malicious intentions behind giving these dehydrated pigs water. Kranjc is an organizer with Toronto Pig Save. This group has a YouTube Channel where they post videos pertaining towards animal activism - and giving water to thirsty pigs on their way to slaughter was a common act of kindness promoted by this group prior to the quarrel between Krajnc and the truck driver.
Laws surrounding animal agriculture are highly unethical. This is not unknown but is widely accepted by the meat consumer. In this particular scenario, the pigs are not required to receive any food or water unless they have been in transport for over 36 hours. Flip the scenario to a truck full of dogs - this treatment is now marked as inhumane, the truck driver is jailed for animal abuse.
Compassion is not a crime, it is the epitome of the human existence.
You can find more information on Krajnc's trial as it happens through the hashtag #PigTrial.
