Hats off to the British pub Fighting Cocks. Recently People for the Extortion, Torture and Abuse of human beings (PETA) demanded the establishment change its name. According to The Drinks Business the pub was founded in the 1700’s and changed its name to Fighting Cocks in 1872.

PETA states that for the bar to change its name would recognize society’s growing recognition of growing compassion for animals and would help give chickens the respect they deserve. The pub’s present name was, essentially, insensitive to chickens and that they deserve recognition and kindness. The animal rights group even had the gall to equate Ye Olde Fighting Cock‘s name with slavery. The group said:

“We understand that the pub has long been called Ye Olde Fighting Cocks and that there may be some resistance to making a name change, but just as many pubs with names tied to slavery changed their names to match modern sensibilities, so it’s high time for The Cocks to change.”

The owner of the pub fired back with a firm and direct statement rebuking PETA’s request saying:

“This is an historic building with a remarkable story behind it, and I take the responsibility of looking after the oldest pub in the country very seriously and want to share that history with locals and with the tourists that visit from far and wide all year round. So I am not in favour of changing the name as I think that history and heritage is important to retain and protect.”

This ridiculous move by PETA is one of many ways animal rights groups seek to dehumanize or downplay certain aspects of our culture. In this case it is to remove the name of a pub with connotations related to cock fighting even though the practice was banned in the 18th century. PETA not only attacks the human food supply and our healthcare by the group’s opposition to vivisection but now it seeks to attack cultural aspects that have to do with humans using animals.