Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
As of this writing, the USDA has committed to closing—finally—a
loophole in the law that allowed the torment of these animals who
couldn't even stand or walk. We're hopeful that we will see an end
to the slaughter of downed cattle, a long-fought battle, yet that
promised ban still will not apply to pigs or other farmed animals. It
is, however, a significant step in the right direction.
There are more animals used in food production than all other
animal-use industries put together, yet the laws to protect animals
raised for food are weak or nonexistent and often not enforced.
While we've achieved some improvements, agribusiness con-
cerns and their allies in state and federal government are powerful
forces that resist change. Some of the fastest change is occurring
in the retail sector, as food service providers and consumers are
demanding an end to some of the worst cruelties factory farmers
have instituted as customary agricultural practice. And of course,
every person has the power in his or her life to make change by
making food choices with the animals in mind.
For my part, the many cruelties I have witnessed in twenty-plus
years of animal advocacy have only reaffirmed my convictions
about the importance of kindness to animals and the great pos-
sibilities of legal reform and personal transformation. Human be-
ings can do such great harm to the animal world, but we are also
capable of doing such great good. Animals have a way of bringing
out both the worst and the best in the human heart—our most self-
ish and callous instincts, and our most generous and noble. I've
witnessed a lot more of the latter in my work than the former. And
I believe more than ever that showing respect and compassion for
animals is one of the finest marks we can leave in this world.
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