International Day of Action for Elephants in Zoos (IDAEZ)
June 19, 2010

GET STARTED

Topics on this page:

For Event Organizers…

• If you are organizing an event at your zoo, please let us know by clicking here. (http://www.helpelephants.com/idaez_event_form.html) We’ll post your event on-line so others can join and make it a huge success.

• IDA can provide flyers and posters for your event. To order, please contact Melissa@idausa.org for materials.

• Please email zoos@idausa.org if you would like background information on your zoo’s elephants, assistance in creating a flyer specific to your zoo, or assistance with public relations efforts.

• Visit www.helpelephants.com/records to see if the medical records for the elephants at your zoo are listed (includes only publicly owned/run zoos).

• For more information on elephants in zoos, please visit www.HelpElephants.com.

For Event Attendees…

• If you want to join an event, please click here to locate one at the zoo in your area.

• Contact the coordinator to say you will attend.

• Bring a friend or two to the event.

• Offer to help! If you have a special talent or service to offer, let the organizer know (i.e., public relations, graphic artist, printer, veterinarian, former zoo keeper, etc.)

• Educate yourself! Learn more about elephants in zoos at www.HelpElephants.com.
  
  

Event Ideas

Following are just a few ideas for planning your event. Be creative!

• Hold an elephant rally.


• Hand out leaflets, hold signs and banners, circulate petitions.


• Set up an information table or educational display. Tip: Juxtapose photos of elephants in zoos next to elephants living in sanctuaries or the wild.


• Create a kids’ corner, where children can leave a message or drawing about helping elephants in zoos. Deliver the items to the zoo director or your elected officials.


• Create a memorial to the elephants who have died at your zoo.


• Hand out wearable stickers so zoo customers carry your message with them throughout the day.


• Rent an elephant costume to attract attention.

More Ways to Get Involved

Unable to attend an event at your zoo or just want to do more? There are other ways to help:

• Write a letter to the editor of your local paper.


• Write and call your local elected officials and educate them about the elephants’ plight. Send a copy of IDA’s elephant flyer. Even if your city or state does not own or run your zoo, public money may still be funding it.


• Share information with your friends, colleagues and neighbors.

Don’t Have Elephants at Your Zoo But Want to Help?

If you do not live near a zoo that holds elephants but are passionate about taking action, hold an elephant party to raise awareness and donations for IDA’s elephant campaign. One of IDA’s Elephant Team members will make a personal call to your party to thank everyone and answer questions about elephants in zoos. Contact Melissa@idausa.org for suggested materials.

Resources

For more information on elephants in zoos, including statements by elephant experts, fact sheets, elephant medical records and scientific papers, visit www.HelpElephants.com and choose Resources.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Melissa Gonzalez, IDAEZ Coordinator, at Melissa@idausa.org or call 707-981-7701.