Barnes & Noble Bookstore is being stormed with complaints after they cordially invited football's Michael Vick to a book signing tour in their Exton, Pa. store. Pet lovers were urged via social media to contact corporate offices (1-800-962-6177) during business hours to protest Vick's invitation. One anonymous animal advocate shared, "I talked to the manager at the Exton Barnes & Noble store. She said corporate is waiting to see if there is bad feedback on this to see if they will cancel or not. There is strength in numbers and we can make a difference by voicing our opinions."
As the day progressed, it was confirmed that Barnes & Noble had officially canceled the Michael Vick invitation, but not due to a change of heart in regards to the welfare of animals, but because "Michael Vick's people feared for his safety." The event was canceled by Vick's staff, not by Barnes & Noble. Animal advocate Jill Borkowski shared, "They are more than willing to host him [Vick] in their store and profit from him. I know where I won't be shopping anymore." And millions agreed. The posts continue to be added to the Barnes & Noble Facebook page today from angry consumers who want to let the store know they will no longer be receiving their business.
Vick was convicted of operating a cruel dog fighting ring in 2007 where his actions led to the torture, death and gruesome lives of countless pit bull terriers. At the time, Vick was the quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons football team. Vick and three others were convicted of federal offense conspiracy changes and imprisoned. In addition, Vick was rightfully suspended from the NFL and lost endorsement deals worth millions. In 2008, Vick filed for bankruptcy (Chapter 11). However, Vick is now playing football again, for the Philadelphia Eagles, and he now "owns" a dog- to the dismay of animal lovers across the globe.
We cannot undo the actions of Vick's past, but we can show businesses that support his sordid actions that we will not support them, that we will not support the world of dog fighting. In addition, we can show Vick and those around us that we support kindness to animals, the No Kill Philosophy and we can adopt our next pet from a shelter or rescue- saving a life in need.
To learn more about the horrible acts of dog fighting led by Vick, check out The Lost Dogs, a novel written by journalist Jim Gorant.
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