AKC Position on Russian Anti-Gay Legislation and 2016 World Dog Show

We wanted to share a letter Dennis Sprung and Alan Kalter recently sent to the President of the FCI. This is in response to the FCI allowing Russia to host the 2016 World Dog Show.

Regards,

AKC Communications

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

July 26, 2013

Mr. Rafael de Santiago

President F.C.I.

Dear Rafael,

One of the most compelling aspects of the human-canine bond – cherished internationally more than ever before – is the fact that our dogs love us unconditionally. Dogs do not discriminate. Gender, race, sexual orientation and other status do not enter the equation of responsible pet ownership. That is why the American Kennel Club and our constituency are puzzled and disappointed by the decision to allow Russia to host the 2016 World Dog Show. The proliferation of anti-gay and lesbian laws in Russia today is both disturbing and shocking to our community. The choice of this country as a venue for such a prestigious dog show flies in the face of the ideals of the human-canine bond.

On behalf of the American Kennel Club, our member clubs, and the American purebred dog fancy, we urge you to move the 2016 World Dog Show from Russia to a nation that respects and upholds human rights for all its citizens. The international dog community deserves to enjoy the World Dog Show in a place that stands for freedom and equal rights for all. AKC cannot and will not support participation in the 2016 World Dog Show if it is held in Russia.

As exhibitors, breeders, handlers and trainers, we teach our dogs many things. But there is no denying, they teach us too. Our bond with dogs is not defined by the type of person who holds the leash. We cannot support competition in an environment where tolerance does not exist.

Yours respectfully,

 Alan T. Kalter

Chairman of the Board

Dennis B. Sprung

President and CEO

Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=29480

Posted by admin on Aug 9 2013. Filed under Breaking News, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.