Hello, all. Most of you must surely know 2009 has been a pivotal year for the growing opposition to the existence of horse drawn carriages in Chicago. As cities like Rome, New York City, Charleston and many others are seeing growing numbers of people speaking out that horses have no place in congested, urban environments, our city saw horses had to be seized by Animal Care and Control early this year due to horrid conditions they were housed in, and obvious signs of malnourishment and neglect. A Cook County judge handed down 7 counts of criminal animal cruelty charges against 2 carriage drivers earlier this fall as a result of this investigation.

With this growing opposition, cities the world over that haven't wised up and and banned the industry yet are marking 12/5/09 as the 1st annual World Anti-Carriage Day, and holding protests against this cruel and awful business. Please come out and be a voice for the voiceless on 12/5/09 at 2pm at Water Tower Place (where Michigan and Chicago Avenues interesect). Signs and leaflets will be provided.....we're hoping for a great turnout from all you animal lovers, especially those who know horses, and who understand how out of their element they are in the urban setting.

No more horses should be injured, killed, or worked to death in this awful industry....we need to stand up and let the message be heard. Dress warm if you do come out, and we hope to see you there.

-Matt and Alexis
Carriage-Free Chicago