Free From Harm

Meat-eating is strongly associated with cultural perceptions of masculinity and power. The idea that meat-eating and killing are “manly” is constantly reinforced through advertising and other forms of cultural narrative that tell us who we are. This macho mythologizing of meat helps explain why women are more than twice as likely as men to be vegetarian. … READ ON

In this short and concise video clip, Francione astutely describes the root of our problem with animals which is also the basis for his theory of animal rights. We say we believe that animals should not be harmed unnecessarily and yet 99% of our use of animals can only be described as unnecessary and pleasure-based. “The best justification we have for inflicting pain, suffering and death on 10 billion animals a year is that they taste good. I regard that as moral schizophrenia.” … READ ON

Father Frank Mann’s own journey has been inspired by visionaries such as Dorothy Day and Thomas Merton, who have shown compassion and moral leadership in the face of injustice. He recently had a deep personal awakening to the plight of animals, and has since incorporated the values of being vegan and animal rights into his spiritual life and vision of a more just and peaceful world. … READ ON

In this video recorded at the March 2013 McDougall Advanced Study Weekend, leading sustainability activist Dr. Richard Oppenlander makes a compelling case for how the transition to a plant-based diet is the most practical, effective and sustainable solution to our most serious environmental problems as well as debunking the most popular misconceptions about sustainability. … READ ON

In this hugely inspiring TED-series video, Zoe Weil explains how each of us can apply our passions and skills to end a problem like factory farming. She highlights several people — from artists to business entrepreneurs — who have used their profession to bring awareness to the issue and help build empathy for animals used in modern agriculture.
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Dr. Oppenlander’s video tells his own personal story about raising his three children on a plant based diet on a farm in Michigan which they converted into an animal sanctuary for abused and unwanted farmed animals. And he explains the ecological problem inherent in farming animals and relying on animal products for food. Comfortably Unaware is a strong message of how we need to become aware of the impact our food choices for ourselves and for the future of our planet. … READ ON

In this follow up to her previous TEDx talk, The World Becomes What You Teach, Zoe Weil, President of the Institute for Humane Education, focuses on how each of us can combine our passions, talents, and concerns to contribute to a better world and how this concept must be woven into our education system. Together we can solve our pressing challenges and create a humane, just, and healthy world for all people, animals, and the environment. … READ ON

Animal advocate and educator Elizabeth DeCoux explains how and why to oppose agriculture gag laws that seek to criminalize animal advocacy efforts in exposing the abuses of animal enterprises like farms and labs. She begins her talk with explaining the political motivation behind the emergence of ag gag bills in Florida and other states, … READ ON

Wollen is a former VP of Citibank and Australian philanthropist who is known to keep out of the limelight. But, man, did he come to the table for this debate to deliver a huge performance and a powerful message packed in just 10-minutes. Bravo! … READ ON

Intelligence Squared’s 2012 series of debates kicks off with a look at the ethics of eating meat. Six speakers are divided into two teams for lively and insightful arguments for and against the proposition, Animals Should Be Off the Menu. Out of an audience of hundreds, 73.6% agreed meat should be off the menu upon hearing all of the arguments. Find out why, then ask yourself if you are making the right choice. Speaking for the proposition are Peter Singer, Philip Wollen and Veronica Ridge; against it, Adrian Richardson, Fiona Chambers and Bruce McGregor. Their cases are followed by questions from the floor and finally, the audience vote. … READ ON

This video presentation provides an overview of the key environmental impacts of our food choices and answers the question, what is truly sustainable in terms of food choices? Oppenlander debunks many of the common myths and greenwashing pitfalls of the so called sustainable animal agriculture industry. … READ ON