31 years ago, on 1st February 1995, animal rights activist Jill Phipps lost her life in a tragic accident while protesting the export of live baby veal calves. Born in Coventry, England, on 15th January 1964, Jill’s passion for animals shaped her from a young age, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire advocates today.
Jill left school at 16 to work for Royal Mail but quickly channeled her energy into activism. From age 11, she joined her mother campaigning against the fur trade, eventually convincing her family to go vegetarian. She supported the Eastern Animal Liberation League, helping close a local fur shop and farm through persistent efforts.
Even as a single mother raising her son, Jill attended demonstrations and hunt sabotages. The veal calf exports from Coventry Airport horrified her, she walked nearly 100 miles to Westminster in protest and picketed the organizer’s home on her 31st birthday.
On that day, Jill was among 35 protesters at Coventry Airport in Baginton. Ten broke through police lines, sitting in the road or chaining to a lorry carrying calves to Amsterdam. As the vehicle moved, Jill ran toward it, climbed the front, slipped, and was crushed under its wheels, suffering fatal injuries including a broken spine.
Her death drew national attention, raised in Parliament, and spotlighted the cruelty of live exports. It contributed to broader changes, like the end of calf crate bans.
Jill’s sacrifice amplified calls against animal suffering, reminding us of the courage needed for change. At myTikkun, we honor her dedication by continuing the fight for compassionate treatment of all animals. Her story stands as a call to action. May it inspire kinder choices today.
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