Congratulations, you’ve reached the page announcing the World Fléchage Video Competition! Why not join in and be a part of this unique event.
What is fléchage? Fléchage is a form of direct action that was devised in 2007 by a group of anti-fur activists in the charming city of Lausanne, Switzerland, and which captured the headlines from day one (article in major Swiss newspaper Le Matin). It involves walking around the pedestrian precinct carrying a sign with a graphic description of what fur is (such as "tortured animal skin" or "dead animals," etc.) and an arrow pointing down. You use the sign to point to the fur garments, trims and accessories of any individuals wearing them – just keep following them until they notice you. At the same time, other activists distribute flyers highlighting the horrible reality of the fur trade to capitalize on the interest generated by the action. Public reactions can range from hilarity to solidarity with the wearers.
Here is an anonymous example with the surprise appearance of a local fur magnate, which takes the event to a whole new level:
Why do fléchage? Much to the surprise of the more skeptical activists among us, fléchage has turned out to be highly effective. Not only does it generate media interest but it also has an immediate impact on the street, where passersby are generally amused. It has successfully raised the issue of fur again as a matter of public debate and put those people under pressure who choose to go out with such garments. This is no guarantee, of course, that fléchage will be as successful in other cultural environments. But, to quote a well-known anti-speciesist theorist who will remain nameless: you never knoooow.
The competition Despite its huge local success, this form of activism is still largely unrecognized by anti-fur activists and groups around the world. Therefore, LausAnimaliste is proud to announce the launch of the World Fléchage Video Competition.
Read on for participation details and conditions.
When all the video entries have been received LausAnimaliste (or the whole world, if we can find an appropriate means of voting) will chose the winning work in spring 2009. The winner will be awarded the soon-to-be-iconic « Flèche d’Or » trophy. The videos will be posted on the LausAnimaliste website.
Practical details
State the name of the group or collective and where the action took place.
Videos must be no longer than three minutes.
All entries must be received by 15 April 2009.
Upload the video to YouTube AND send a copy on DVD to LausAnimaliste, CP 109, 1000 Lausanne 6, Switzerland;
A short introductory text or narration is welcome but not obligatory.
Entries may be in any language.
Selection criteria for winning entries
The arrow(s): originality, quality, etc.
The anti-fur message: clarity, effectiveness, etc.
The Film: production, quality, originality
Presentation of the target: perspective, improvisation, etc.
Bonus: unexpected, spectacular events, celebrity appearances, etc.
Please address any questions or comments to inform(at)lausanimaliste.org
Appeal: please let us know if you can translate this page into your native language free of charge to help us announce the competition in as many different language regions as possible!
