The 28-year-old wants to highlight the conditions that mother pigs are kept in
A woman is living like a pig in Trafalgar Square for three weeks – confined to a crate so cramped she cannot even stand upright.
Michelle Farnham, 28, is spending 21 nights in the 43-inch tall farrowing crate, situated in one of London’s most bustling tourist destinations. Since climbing inside on September 1, she has been sleeping, brushing her teeth, using the toilet, and even washing herself from behind the bars.
A team of volunteers care for her around the clock, working in shifts to ensure she remains safe and has everything she requires, including food, water, and buckets. Vegan activist Michelle, from Hertfordshire, is undertaking the challenge to highlight the conditions in which mother pigs are kept.
She explained: “The hardest part is definitely the lack of freedom. I am a very independent person and I now have to ask people for help with everything. All freedom has been completely stripped away from me. It made me have sympathy for the pigs even more.”
She added: “I have people looking after me and a doctor coming to check that I am alright. The pigs don’t have that. It is really difficult being in here but I just keep thinking that the pigs have it much worse.”
Michelle became involved with the campaign group Animal Rising straight out of university through their sister organisation Plant Based University. Ever since, she has worked as their footage reviewer, and has watched thousands of clips from farms and slaughterhouses. The concept originated with a real-life pig, whom the group filmed over the course of a month to document the conditions she was subjected to.
Appalled by her treatment, they resolved to stage a bold and daring demonstration. The crate was sourced from an actual factory farm, measuring 83 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 43 inches in height.
Three weeks was selected as this represents the minimum amount of time a mother pig is confined within one.
Michelle said: “When it was first suggested I didn’t put myself forward but the more I thought about it I realised that I fit the bill. We needed someone who was able to talk about pigs relatively confidently. I love animals, that is the reason I stopped eating them. It is an experience and in many ways I am glad I am doing it but I wouldn’t want to do something quite like this ever again.”
The group have a tent to shield the crate for privacy whenever Michelle needs the loo or to sleep, though she admits she still feels very much on display.
The aspects she finds most uncomfortable under public scrutiny are brushing her teeth and washing her hair. Michelle is able to request quiet time, during which she puts her headphones on while volunteers discourage the public from engaging with her.
A gazebo is also on hand for periods of rain or excessive heat. The animal welfare advocate acknowledges it has been a challenge, yet feels largely secure and well-supported throughout.
She added: “It is quieter than I was expecting. Something that has been really lovely is that the homeless community have been really welcoming. The first night was really rough. I only managed to get a couple of hours sleep and I thought if this carries on then I can’t do this. But I am getting an alright amount of sleep now. I am not enjoying being in here, but I have gotten used to it.”
The demonstration has sparked considerable reaction from those passing by, with Michelle noting that the response has been largely positive. Initially, her family had serious concerns about her safety, though she reports they’ve since become more comfortable after seeing the setup in person.
So far, the petition demanding Luna the pig’s release has gained over 17,000 signatures.
Michelle explained: “It is a very strange situation to see your daughter in a pig crate but it has been really wonderful having so many people come and support me. It has been so positive. If there had been negativity it would be a lot more draining. We have had people make the occasional comment or give me the middle finger.”
She added: “As soon as we explain what this is people are horrified that it is happening in the UK. I am looking forward to it ending but I hope that the impact continues.”
Rose Patterson, 37, director of Animal Rising, is amongst the volunteers supporting Michelle throughout her campaign.
She commented: “The crate was actually another member’s idea, but we needed to find the perfect person. I thought it was genius. Michelle has got the knowledge of what has been going on in these farms and she is a great spokesperson.”
She added: “We were worried that we would get moved on by the council but it has been very smooth. Most people have been supportive or just interested. The majority just have no idea what is happening and they are really shocked. People are really inspired by Michelle’s bravery.”
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