Providence, R.I., Dec 8, 2003 / 22:00 pm
The animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is hoping that a billboard of the Virgin Mary cradling a chicken carcass will convince people to become vegetarian.
The billboard, seen by motorists near exit 4 on Interstate 195 in East Providence, includes the phrase, "Go Vegetarian. It's an Immaculate Conception."
PETA said its message is designed to highlight that animals raised for food are mistreated and that vegetarianism combats the practice. The group said it chose Rhode Island to debut its campaign because the state has the highest percentage of Catholics in the United States.
Someone, apparently upset with the billboard, spray-painted "Shame!!" on it.