Animal Law Commons^™

Letting The Cat Out Of The Bag: How Lack Of Access To Animal Companionship And Husbandry Fosters Inequality For Black Americans, Kelsey Goldman

UC Irvine Law Review

Throughout American history, animals have been used by those in power to harm and terrorize Black Americans. While state-sanctioned use of slave-patrol and police dogs have been a commonly discussed issue, there has been little to no analysis on the harms Black Americans have faced from the systemic deprivation of animal companionship and husbandry. Racism and capitalism in America have resulted in a confusing labyrinth of private actors, animal organizations, corporate industries, courts, and legislators who have worked collectively to cut off opportunities for Black Americans to benefit from animal companionship and husbandry.

In Part I, this Note …