University of California, Riverside 1985 laboratory raid

Britches ALF cropped

The University of California, Riverside 1985 laboratory raid was a significant event in the history of animal rights activism in the United States. In April 1985, a group of animal rights activists broke into the laboratories at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) and removed a number of animals used in research, along with research documentation. This event highlighted the growing tension between animal rights groups and scientific researchers, and it had lasting impacts on both animal rights legislation and research practices.

Background

During the 1980s, the animal rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States. Activists were increasingly concerned about the ethical treatment of animals in scientific research. The University of California, Riverside was one of many institutions conducting research involving animals, which made it a target for activists seeking to draw attention to their cause.

The Raid

In April 1985, a group of animal rights activists, reportedly associated with the Animal Liberation Front (ALF), infiltrated the UCR laboratories. The activists removed approximately 467 animals, including mice, rabbits, and other small mammals, which were being used in various research projects. In addition to taking the animals, the activists also seized research records and equipment, causing significant disruption to ongoing scientific studies.

Impact on Research

The raid had a profound impact on the research community at UCR and beyond. Many research projects were set back significantly due to the loss of animals and data. The incident raised concerns about the security of research facilities and the potential for similar actions at other institutions.

Legal and Ethical Implications

The raid at UCR brought national attention to the issue of animal rights and the ethical considerations of using animals in research. It sparked debates about the balance between scientific progress and animal welfare. In response to such incidents, institutions began to implement stricter security measures and review their ethical guidelines for animal research.

Legislative Response

The raid contributed to the growing call for legislative action to protect both research facilities and the welfare of animals used in research. This led to increased support for the Animal Welfare Act and the development of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) to oversee research involving animals.

Aftermath

Following the raid, UCR and other research institutions took steps to enhance security and improve transparency in their research practices. The event also galvanized the animal rights movement, leading to increased activism and advocacy for animal welfare.

Also see

• Animal Liberation Front
• Animal Welfare Act
• Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
• Animal rights movement
• History of animal testing