Dr. Melanie Joy, author of Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows: an Introduction to Carnism, is in the process of gathering ideas to create a new website for both activists and non-activists (or, as I like to say, “soon-to-be-activists”) — with the goal of raising awareness about carnism. Carnism — a term which Joy herself coined — is “the belief system, or ideology, in which it is considered ethical and appropriate to eat (certain) animals. Unlike vegetarianism or veganism, which are visible belief systems, carnism is an invisible belief system utilizing specific strategies, or defenses, to hide the contradictions between our values and behaviors, allowing us to make exceptions to what we would normally consider ethical (for example, the way many of us treat dogs as beloved family members while regarding other animals as mere commodities).” The website, I’ve been told, will aim to be an enlightening, positive, and safe place for everyone to further explore carnism with one another.
by Dr. Melanie Joy
I, for one, happen to find carnism — and Dr. Melanie Joy’s insights as a whole — pretty fascinating, and I’m about as giddy about this up-and-coming website as I am about Dr. Joy’s interview on our upcoming podcast this weekend. (Are you subscribed to our podcast?)
So, if you want to be in on this new and refreshing way of looking at animal rights theory — and you have web design skills — this is your lucky day — and possibly Dr. Joy’s, too. According to Dr. Joy and her lovely colleagues, they are seeking a volunteer web designer to work alongside them as they bring to life this virtual hub for animal advocacy and theory:
Volunteer Opportunity – Web designer
We are seeking a creative and enthusiastic volunteer web designer to help us develop a new website that accurately conveys the groundbreaking nature of our work, and to help us create an active exciting presence on the web. This position could be well suited for a design student looking to develop his or her resume, and who is interested in working on a dynamic project to make the world a better place. This is not location specific, so volunteers from every location are welcome. We are looking for someone to ensure that material on the website is accessible to all groups, including those with disabilities. We would also like someone to perform regular maintenance of the website, or who is willing to train us so that we can maintain the website ourselves.The person must be committed to our mission of improving life through personal and planetary empowerment and making a difference in the lives of animals and themselves. Those who are interested can contact Joy Riccardo at joy724r@gmail.com.