Humans share this planet with millions of other species, and we all have inherent worth. When we consider the individuals around us – whether they’re a lonely elderly neighbour or a frightened chicken on a transport lorry heading to slaughter – we can recognise that everyone feels love, grief, joy, pain, fear, and hope.
Animals have unique personalities, amazing abilities, and a remarkable capacity for emotions. Consider the following facts:
Elephants and chimpanzees mourn and shed tears if a member of their family dies.
Fish “sing” underwater and enjoy physical contact with other fish, often gently rubbing against one another – like how a cat might weave between your legs.
Geese fall in love and are loyal to their partner for life, even when facing danger.
Many orcas in the ocean spend their whole life with their family.
Mother cows walk for miles in search of their stolen babies.
Rats willingly put themselves in harm’s way to save others.
PETA is here to build a more respectful world for all animals.
While tensions often run high, hopelessness abounds, and conflicts rage around the globe, PETA is empowering humans to recognise the similarities in everyone around them – instead of focusing on our differences. Our “Every Animal Is Someone” slogan will be incorporated into our work for animals.
For animals who are cut open on laboratory tables, prodded onto the kill floor in abattoirs, skinned for leather, or held in cramped tanks in marine parks, our compassion and conviction are critical. We all have the power to help make the world a kinder place and choose non-violence every single day with each decision we make.
Our daily choices of what we eat, buy, and do can have a life-saving impact on animals. One of the best ways to show our solidarity with every animal is to go vegan. PETA will gladly help – we have all you need to get started.
We’ve also created a free, downloadable empathy kit, which offers a step-by-step guide for understanding others’ perspectives and experiences. Share one with a relative who eats meat and cheese, a neighbour who pulls on their dog’s lead during walks, a colleague who carries a crocodile-skin bag or wears wool or feathers, or anyone else who could benefit from a lesson in kindness.
