Michelle Farnham, a 28-year-old vegan activist from Hertfordshire, is living inside a farrowing crate in Trafalgar Square for three weeks to protest the conditions endured by mother pigs in factory farming. Since September 1, she has been confined to a 43-inch tall crate, unable to stand upright, in one of London's busiest tourist areas.
Living Conditions and Daily Routine
Farnham sleeps, brushes her teeth, uses the toilet, and washes herself from behind the bars of the crate, which measures 83 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 43 inches in height. The crate was sourced from an actual factory farm. A team of volunteers cares for her around the clock, providing food, water, and buckets, ensuring her safety and well-being.
Farnham explained the hardest part of the experience: "The hardest part is definitely the lack of freedom. I am a very independent person and I now have to ask people for help with everything. All freedom has been completely stripped away from me. It made me have sympathy for the pigs even more." She added, "I have people looking after me and a doctor coming to check that I am alright. The pigs don't have that. It is really difficult being in here but I just keep thinking that the pigs have it much worse."
Campaign Origins and Personal Motivation
Farnham became involved with Animal Rising, a campaign group, straight out of university through their sister organisation Plant Based University. She has worked as their footage reviewer, watching thousands of clips from farms and slaughterhouses. The concept for the demonstration originated with a real-life pig, whom the group filmed over a month to document her conditions. Appalled by her treatment, they resolved to stage a bold demonstration.
The three-week duration was chosen because it represents the minimum amount of time a mother pig is confined within a farrowing crate. Farnham said, "When it was first suggested I didn't put myself forward but the more I thought about it I realised that I fit the bill. We needed someone who was able to talk about pigs relatively confidently. I love animals, that is the reason I stopped eating them. It is an experience and in many ways I am glad I am doing it but I wouldn't want to do something quite like this ever again."
Public Reaction and Support
The group has a tent to shield the crate for privacy when Farnham needs the loo or to sleep, though she admits she still feels on display. She finds brushing her teeth and washing her hair most uncomfortable under public scrutiny. Farnham can request quiet time, during which she puts on headphones while volunteers discourage the public from engaging with her. A gazebo is also available for periods of rain or excessive heat.
Farnham noted, "It is quieter than I was expecting. Something that has been really lovely is that the homeless community have been really welcoming. The first night was really rough. I only managed to get a couple of hours sleep and I thought if this carries on then I can't do this. But I am getting an alright amount of sleep now. I am not enjoying being in here, but I have gotten used to it."
The demonstration has sparked considerable reaction from passersby, with Farnham noting the response has been largely positive. Initially, her family had serious concerns about her safety, though they have since become more comfortable after seeing the setup in person. A petition demanding the release of the real-life pig, named Luna, has gained over 17,000 signatures.
Farnham said, "It is a very strange situation to see your daughter in a pig crate but it has been really wonderful having so many people come and support me. It has been so positive. If there had been negativity it would be a lot more draining. We have had people make the occasional comment or give me the middle finger." She added, "As soon as we explain what this is people are horrified that it is happening in the UK. I am looking forward to it ending but I hope that the impact continues."
Organiser's Perspective and Future Impact
Rose Patterson, 37, director of Animal Rising, is amongst the volunteers supporting Farnham. She commented, "The crate was actually another member's idea, but we needed to find the perfect person. I thought it was genius. Michelle has got the knowledge of what has been going on in these farms and she is a great spokesperson." She added, "We were worried that we would get moved on by the council but it has been very smooth. Most people have been supportive or just interested. The majority just have no idea what is happening and they are really shocked. People are really inspired by Michelle's bravery."
The protest continues until September 21, with Farnham hoping the impact will extend beyond the three weeks in the crate.
