Programs & Campaigns

A Voice for All Animals

November 23, 2004

THE NEW England Anti-Vivisection Society's position on dissection choice legislation was misrepresented in Maria Sacchetti's article "Education chief to urge alternatives to dissection" (Nov. 17). She erroneously stated that the society urged the Board of Education to allow students to "opt out of dissection."

The society's position is that all students should have an equitable chance to stay in science and learn biology through dissection lessons that do not compromise their ethics. Dissection choice is an "opt in" opportunity, enabling compassionate students to learn without academic pressure or penalty.

Unlike Lexington High teacher Susan Offner, we do not believe that students with objections to specimen dissection should "go to the library." Students should have a rich learning experience and pass the same exams through the use of alternatives such as interactive CD-ROMs.

The only component of science classes that students should be able to "opt out" of is the cruelty and suffering involved in procuring and preparing animals as specimens. That students refuse to dissect because they are squeamish is an insensitive misconception. Students who object to animal dissection have valid concerns about the humane treatment of animals and the environment. They have a sincere interest in learning science. All of their concerns should be respected, not trivialized, misrepresented, or punished.

Theodora Capaldo
President, New England Anti-Vivisection Society