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League
Against Cruel Sports WARWICKSHIRE GROUP
JILL PHIPPS DAY 2005
The
plaque on Jill's memorial stone
The
march in memory of Jill Phipps began with the laying of flowers
at her memorial stone, opposite the airport gates on Rowley Road,
Baginton Airport.
Although I have been to Baginton many times since 1995, it was a
very moving experience. I don't think anyone could quite believe
that ten years had passed. It made me realise the little time we
have to make a difference.
The gathering outside Central Hall had great speeches from Juliet
Gellatley of Viva! Tony Moore (whose wife Vicki died in her campaign
to end Bull Fighting) and Jill's close friend and activist John
Curtin.
Since 1997/8, probably since Hillgrove, I have completey lost myself
in Hunting with dogs issues. This march brought back memories of
Baginton, Gilders, Becketts and Hillgrove as if they were yesterday.
It was good to see some of the same people, tirelessly campaigning.
The first part of the march (which lasted approx. 40 mins) was in
complete silence. This was incredibly moving. Hundreds of demonstrators,
walking through Coventry city centre to the solemn beat of a slow
drum. I thought that this was most effective as people stopped what
they were doing to read the banners. This was probably the most
emotional march I have been on, certainly since 1995 when a thousand
people turned up at Baginton after Jill's death.
More speeches followed at the Cathedral from friends and activists.
Justin Timson (Jill's partner) played the didgeridoo on the steps
of the Cathedral and tapped a drum as if it was a heart beat - again,
very moving. We finally marched towards Swanswell Park to a more
upbeat Samba band - to celebrate Jill's life.
I think Jill has touched the hearts of so many people because of
her belief and her passion for the protection and rights of animals.
Having only herself, as a tool to fight for what she believed in,
gives strength to us all. One person can make a difference.
Coventry Animal Alliance organised a great event that will be remembered
for years to come.
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One
particular banner that I saw, said it all, for me:
"The evil will
continue, if the good people do nothing."
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Click above to visit
the
Vegan Society website: |
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Click
on the link above to find out more about Jill's Fund and how it
is being used to maintain her memory and to help animals in need.
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Click
here to find out how you can get a copy of this inspirational
film about Jill's life.
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Unfortunately
Jill is not the only one who has lost her life fighting for justice
for animals. This section now also includes comrades who have
passed away. Click on the link above to find out more.
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Click
on the link above to find out more about CAA. Perhaps you might
even like to get involved?
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Click
on the link above for animal rights info, news and dates.
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