Protest calls for Vick suspension by NFL

NEW YORK, July 21 (UPI) -- Animal rights activists are demanding the NFL take a hard line with Atlanta Falcons star Michael Vick over charges he was involved in a dogfighting ring.

Demonstrators rallied outside NFL headquarters in New York Friday to call for the quarterback's banishment from the league or at least his suspension until the charges are resolved.

The New York Post said the Rev. Al Sharpton and rap mogul Russell Simmons joined the protest and sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell blasting Vick for allegedly taking part in a "despicable" activity.

Vick was charged this week with allowing dogfights to be held on his Virginia property. He will be arraigned Thursday while his teammates prepare for the opening of training camp.