Wild Youth Foundation
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Did you know real Bearskin is used in the production of the Kings Guard hat ?
A cruel tradition out of time
Did you know that the hats worn by the King's Guard outside royal residences like Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle are actually crafted from real bearskin? It goes without saying that this ceremonial practice is outdated and incredibly cruel. It is often the black bear that is hunted and skinned in Canada for its fur to make the tall iconic black hats.
Like most animal cruelty practices, it is generally not supported and publicly condemned when exposed. In 2022, a petition advocating for the abolition of this tradition garnered over 100,000 signatures. In response, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) stated it would consider an alternative once a suitable one was identified. At that time, the animal rights organisation PETA had invested significantly in developing a synthetic substitute; however, after rigorous testing, the MOD rejected it for not meeting necessary standards.
This should not be viewed as a setback but rather a small step forward. The campaign has gained visibility and remains on the MOD's agenda. It is the responsibility of those who care about animal welfare to carry the momentum forward, just as it was in 2022. Recognising these efforts, Wild Youth has stepped in to advocate for the final crucial step: urging the MOD to make a genuine investment in viable alternatives to the bearskin used in the Bearskin Hat.
Building on the progress already achieved, it is vital not to start from scratch but to acknowledge the advancements made and to push for the decisive action needed to eliminate the use of bearskin in the ceremonial headwear of the Royal Guards.
As with all the campaigns Wild Youth encourages people to support, we have made it incredibly simple for you to get involved and create legislative change.
A Canadian Black Bear, the same type bear used to produce the Bearskin Hats.
Take Action , Make a Change
1
Raise Awareness
Often, what keeps these barbaric policies in place isn't widespread support but sheer ignorance of their existence. Once people uncover the brutal truth behind how these hats are made, they are more likely to rally against them and demand an end to their production. Share what you've learned about Bearskin Hats in the most effective way possible! Whether you're chatting with friends and family or posting on social media, make it engaging.
2
Contact Your MP
We have made contacting your MP super easy - Copy and paste our template and send it to your local MP.
Sending this to your MP can make a real difference. MPs are here to serve their constituents, so the more people who send this template, the stronger the call for change becomes in your communities.
3
Sign the Petition
Signing this petition only takes a moment—just click the link below and add your name. Want to make an even bigger impact? Share it on social media or talk to someone who cares. Petitions thrive on momentum, and remember, a government petition lasts only six months. So, sign, share, and help make our voice heard!
