ORLANDO, Fla. – A protester with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, dressed as an orca was arrested at the baggage claim area of Orlando International Airport, officials said.
A Greater Orlando Aviation Authority spokesperson said protesters were in the area, positioned on the baggage belt, preventing safe operation of the baggage claim.
The two protesters wore orca outfits and were calling on tourists to stay away from SeaWorld this holiday season, according to PETA.
"PETA's protester may have to spend a night in a jail cell, but that's nothing compared to the lifelong imprisonment of orcas at SeaWorld, who are without freedom, family or anything else that's natural and important to them," PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman said. "Nobody with a heart should ever buy a ticket to SeaWorld, not during the holidays or any other time of the year."
There are guidelines for protesting or demonstrations at the airport, the spokesperson said, adding that there is a safety and security concern of people being covered up, when their face isn't visible.
In an abundance of caution and safety, the protesters were asked to leave the area, the spokesperson said. The Orlando Police Department responded when the protesters did not leave.
One of the protesters was arrested and charged with misdemeanor trespass and taken to an Orange County jail, PETA said.