Join animal rights activists from across the United States (and beyond) for ten powerful days of action, learning, and connection in Chicago, IL.
This June, animal rights activists from across the US and beyond will come together in Chicago for ten transformative days of action, learning, and community. Organized by Animal Activism Collective (AAC), the Chicago Convergence is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to unite in solidarity and plug into some of the most impactful pressure campaigns happening for animals today.
Over the course of the convergence, we'll be mobilizing for global anti-fur and cage-free campaigns, as well as joining forces with local Chicago-based animal rights groups to win victories for animals right here in Chicago.
Housing and food will be provided, so you can focus on what really matters: showing up, growing your skills, and forging lasting connections. You'll get hands-on experience in strategic campaigning, outreach, and effective direct action, all alongside activists from different backgrounds, regions, and movements. A convergence is the ideal space to push past your comfort zone while being held and supported by a community that shares your values. Whether you've been in the movement for decades or are just getting started, this is your chance to make new friends, build new skills, and be part of some of the most meaningful campaigns in the animal rights movement today.
At its heart, the Chicago Convergence is about community. Living, organizing, and taking action together creates space for deep connection, shared purpose, and collective growth. If you're looking to sharpen your activism skills, contribute to meaningful campaigns, and be part of a supportive, international animal rights community, this is for you.
At this convergence, we'll mobilize dozens of activists in Chicago around some of the most important global and national campaigns happening in our movement right now. Activists can expect to participate in hard-hitting actions for ongoing anti-fur campaigns, anti-battery cage protests, and several impactful local campaigns throughout the greater Chicago area.
You will leave this convergence equipped with the skills and confidence to go home and start running effective pressure campaigns in your own community.
The actual convergence takes place from June 5th - 14th. Housing opens in the evening of the 4th and ends the morning of the 15th so book your flights accordingly. House is not guaranteed so please confirm you have housing before booking a flight.
Housing is available on a first come first serve basis. There is limited housing available, so to secure a spot in the house, please indicate so on your registration.
Housing will be packed with other animal rights activists from all around the world. You will likely be sharing a room and/or bed with someone else of the same gender. This is grassroots housing!
Details of housing (such as location and check-in times) will be provided to you after you register and closer to the convergence date. If you need special accommodations, you can do so by responding to the email you receive upon registration. It is not guaranteed that we will be able to accommodate your needs.
If you live in Chicago or can stay with a friend, this is fine and preferred. You do not need to be in the house to attend the convergence.
The convergence schedule will NOT be posted anywhere publicly. To get access to the schedule, you must register. After you register, you will be added to a group chat on the Signal app. The schedule will be posted in the Signal chat the night before each day during the convergence.
You can expect to be participating in the global anti-fur campaigns, cage-free campaigns, and Chicago-based pressure campaigns focusing on foie gras and animals imprisoned for entertainment.
During this convergence, there will be no planned arrests. While getting arrested is unlikely, it is always possible. The goal of this convergence is to teach important activism skills, further advance campaigns, and foster community. Symbolic arrests are not a part of our strategy. That being said, if an activist is arrested at this convergence, we will support you as much as possible given your adherence to our code of conduct and our budget constraints.
AAC is a relatively small grassroots organization with a humble annual budget. This convergence is estimated to cost upwards of $15,000. We are only able to continue putting on these convergences because of support from all of you in the form of grassroots donations.
Please consider donating today! Donate here
Although housing and most food will be provided, you should come with enough money to purchase some food for the 10 days you will be at the convergence. You will also need to cover the cost of your public transit during your stay at the convergence.
Ready to make a difference? Register now to secure your spot at the Chicago Convergence. Together, we'll create lasting change for animals.
