Birmingham Pub's Name Under Fire: A Battle Over Words and Animal Rights

The Sly Old Fox, a historic Birmingham pub dating back to 1891 and frequented by celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, finds itself at the center of a heated debate. Animal rights activists, led by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), are calling for a name change, arguing that the moniker is derogatory towards foxes and perpetuates negative stereotypes.

PETA's Plea for a 'Clever' Change

PETA's vice president of programmes, Elisa Allen, penned a letter to the pub, advocating for a shift from "Sly Old Fox" to "The Clever Old Fox." Allen's argument centers on the negative connotations associated with the word "sly," which she says inaccurately portrays foxes as deceitful. She suggests that "clever" more accurately reflects the intelligence and resourcefulness of these animals. Allen's letter highlighted that derogatory descriptions of foxes have historically led to their violent persecution; they are considered pests and may be poisoned or hunted, often leaving behind helpless babies. She eloquently stated, "The word 'sly' often carries negative connotations like 'deceitful' – a wholly inaccurate and unfair perception of foxes,' Ms Allen wrote. ''Clever', on the other hand, is synonymous with 'intelligent' and 'resourceful' – words which perfectly describe these iconic animals."

This isn't PETA's first attempt at influencing pub names. In 2022, they urged the new owners of Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, Britain's oldest pub, to adopt a more animal-friendly name, suggesting options such as 'The Happy Hens' or 'Ye Olde Clever Cocks.' Campaigners also demanded a fully plant-based menu for the establishment, which dates back to 793 AD.

Last year, PETA also targeted The Old Bulldog, a pub in Stoke-on-Trent. The pub's owner, Mike Newton, defended his choice, arguing that the name honored his beloved pet bulldog, Atticus, and criticized PETA's actions as “left-wing wokery.” PETA, on the other hand, raised concerns about the health issues associated with flat-faced breeds, suggesting the pub be renamed "The Old Mutt." They stated that “Bulldogs and other flat-faced breeds are afflicted with brachycephalic syndrome, which causes laboured breathing, snorting, coughing, retching, tiring easily and fainting.”

Social Media's Roar of Discontent

PETA's latest campaign has sparked a significant backlash on social media, with many users expressing disbelief and amusement at the suggestion. Some questioned whether foxes are capable of being offended by a pub's name. Others criticized the activists for focusing on trivial issues, while some were just left thinking it was utterly ridiculous. One user commented, “These activists are delusional if they honestly believe foxes will be offended by a pub sign! I wasn't aware foxes could even read.” Another added, “Do foxes care? Nope they just carry on being foxes. Those with too much time on their hands need to find something else to occupy their time with.” A third quipped, “Foxes have been boycotting that pub for years.”

The Bigger Picture: Language and Animal Welfare

While the debate rages on, PETA maintains that the words we use hold significant weight, and perpetuating negative stereotypes about any animal can justify mistreatment. The organization argues that changing the pub's name could symbolize a broader societal shift towards respecting and protecting animals. A PETA spokesperson said: 'The words we use matter, and perpetuating negative stereotypes about foxes makes it easier to justify hunting or poisoning these unique and intelligent beings. PETA encourages The Sly Old Fox to become The Clever Old Fox to show respect to one of Britain's most iconic native animals.' The organization believes that the changing of the pub's name could be a symbolic step towards wider change. This is not simply about a name but a larger conversation on respecting and celebrating animals and reframing how we portray them. It is about shifting societal perceptions of wildlife.

A Final Howl: The Future of the Sly Old Fox?

As of now, the Sly Old Fox pub has yet to issue a public response to PETA's request. The outcome remains uncertain, leaving the future of the pub's name hanging in the balance. The story highlights the complex interplay between animal rights activism, public opinion, and the power of language in shaping our perceptions of the natural world. The debate continues to stir conversations about the balance between tradition and progressive values. The discussion has ignited broader conversations surrounding societal responsibility towards animals. The effect of the campaign remains to be seen.