Lake of the Woods ( trfnews.i234.me ) – PETA is challenging Minnesota’s largest tourism draw, fishing, with a symbolic proposal in Lake of the Woods County. The group has requested that the city of Baudette add a mermaid statue to Willie Walleye Park. The statue would stand alongside the existing Willie Walleye, which PETA argues promotes fishing.
The group sent a letter and press release to local officials and media outlining their request. The proposed mermaid would highlight the intelligence and sensitivity of fish. A rendering of the statue carries the message: “If fish had a human face, would you think twice?”
PETA hopes the addition would shift public attitudes. They argue that fish deserve respect and should not be viewed solely as a sport or food. Fish Amnesty Day, observed annually on the fourth Saturday in September, underscores this message. The organization notes that studies show fish can feel severe pain and stress. Many die even after being released back into the water due to injuries.
“Just like humans, fish feel pain and fear and value their lives. Yet they are dragged from the water and left to suffocate,” PETA’s founder said in the release. The group also promotes vegan lifestyles and offers empathy kits to encourage plant-based choices.
As of press time, Baudette city officials had not commented on the request. Fish Amnesty Day will be marked this year on September 27.
PETA says the proposed statue would complement Willie Walleye and send a message of kindness toward all animals.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
