Meat eaters gathered on the Plaza of the Americas Wednesday to sample a slice of political activism for the "PETA Barbeque" held by College Republicans.
The People Eating Tasty Animals Barbeque, served to raise awareness of the extreme stances the animal rights organization, PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, takes.
The cookout provided students with the opportunity to experience the other side of the animal rights issue.
"I think it's the best thing ever," said Nick Galyon, a junior finance major. "I am a big supporter of eating animals. I think PETA is just ridiculous. It's liberal propaganda."
The carnivorous cookout shared its location and time slot with the Hare Krishna lunch. The Hare Krishnas, a religious vegetarian group, distribute lunch every day.
Brian Curry, a member of the Hare Krishnas and UF freshman said eating meat destroys compassion in a person. He said eating meat is a petty and selfish act because it condemns animals to death.
"It's just not necessary to survive," he said. "You can get all the protein you need from eating a vegetarian diet."
Curry said he does not associate with the PETA organization.
The group also encouraged people to bring their pets to the event. Bryan Griffin, the chairman of College Republicans, brought his pet ferret, Athena, and his pet snake, a ball python, Atlas.
Griffin encouraged people to bring their own pet to the barbecue this year because he loves animals, he said.
"There is a balance in the animal cruelty debate." Griffin said. "Loving animals does not exclude you from eating meat."
The food cost about $200 and was provided by David's Real Pit BBQ at a reduced group rate because of the large order. They ordered about 20 pounds of pork and chicken for the barbecue.
