National Animal Rights Day (NARD 15) Austin

National Animal Rights Day (NARD) Austin – NARD 15

Location: Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 - Sawgrass Pavilion

Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025 (NARD is always held the first Sunday in June)

Rain or Shine! We’ll be gathering under a pavilion in case of rain.

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### What to Expect:

Join us for a peaceful ceremony honoring the lives of animals who suffer at the hands of humans, and celebrating a growing movement toward compassion and freedom.

Speakers:
We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Faraz Harsini of Allied Scholars for Animal Protection (ASAP) has been added to the roster as a key speaker this year!

Full speaker lineup includes:

• Sharon Núñez – Animal Equality
• Dr. Faraz Harsini – Allied Scholars for Animal Protection (ASAP) (key speaker)
• Dan Illescas – Central Texas Pig Rescue
• Chris Fuller-Wigg – Austin Farm Sanctuary
• Renee King-Sonnen – Rowdy Girl Sanctuary

Musical Performances by:

• Bryon William Harris – Artists & Activists Records
• Russ Mitchell

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### Ceremony Participation Shirts

To take part in the Memorial Ceremony portion of the event, a NARD T-shirt is required. This helps create a unified, visual tribute.

• Suggested Donation: $10 (to help offset event costs)
• Free shirts are available to anyone experiencing financial hardship — everyone is welcome!

Shirts will also be available on-site at before the ceremony.

Arrive early at 10:30 AM for donuts by Zuchinni Kill....while they last!

If you prefer not to take part in the ceremony, that’s absolutely okay. You’re warmly invited to watch and join us afterward for the speakers, music, and community gathering. Take part is whatever is comfortable for you.

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### Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ #1 – Are T-Shirts Required for NARD 15?

Ceremony Participation Shirts:

If you’d like to take part in the Memorial Ceremony, a T-shirt is required. The regular cost of a T-shirt is $10 to help offset volunteer costs which include permits, signs, audio, flowers, printing, food and much more. We’ve also set aside shirts at no cost for anyone who needs one — so everyone who wishes to join can participate regardless of costs!

FAQ #2 – Can I bring political or animal rights posters to the event?

We kindly ask that attendees do not bring political or protest-style signs to the event because our permit is for a peaceful memorial ceremony only, not a rally or protest so we have to abide by our permit rules. The focus of National Animal Rights Day is to honor the lives of animals through a respectful, solemn gathering. We encourage all participants to come with that spirit in mind.

Out of respect for the tone of the event, we also ask that everyone refrain from chanting or yelling and to stick to family-friendly language for children who may be watching.

Thank you all for helping us maintain a peaceful space of remembrance and compassion. This will be a beautiful day.

FAQ #3 – Can I bring my dog to NARD 15?

Absolutely! As we gather to honor the lives of all animals, it’s beautiful to have our beloved non-human family members with us. Please note: the park requires that all dogs remain on a leash, and we ask that you help us respect the park rules under our permit.

FAQ #4 – Rain or Shine?

National Animal Rights Day (NARD) is observed annually on the first Sunday in June. This year, that falls on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The event is held rain or shine, and we'll be gathering under a pavilion to ensure the ceremony continues regardless of the weather — so please come regardless of conditions. Hopefully, the sun will be shining!

FAQ #5
Where will we be gathering in the park, and is there free parking?

We’ll be gathering at the Sawgrass Pavilion inside Lakeline Park.
Parking is free and available on-site.

For more details about the park, visit: https://www.cedarparktexas.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Lakeline-Park-56

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For up-to-date event information, join us on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1357200152138582