In 2007, I was the NYC Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals coordinator, and my activism was officially transformed forever. Then, in 2008 — while I was on staff at Farm Sanctuary — I was the national Walk for Farm Animals coordinator, overseeing all 60 Walks throughout the US and Canada. Both experiences were like nothing else: In addition to having the totally humbling and awe-inspiring opportunity to work with and get to know some absolutely incredible animal activists throughout the continent, I was lucky enough to be able to have a direct role in one of the biggest and best farm animal fund-raisers in history.
The Walk for Farm Animals is a continent-wide event that occurs every year around Oct. 1 — World Farm Animals Day. Thousands of people come together everywhere and celebrate farm animals. Much-needed funds and awareness are raised for Farm Sanctuary’s rescue, education and advocacy efforts, and people are left with a sense of community and pride. Farm animals are celebrated, and awareness is raised about the horrors inherent in factory farming. There is no other fund-raiser quite like Farm Sanctuary’s Walk for Farm Animals.
Currently, Farm Sanctuary is seeking amazing volunteer organizers to spearhead Walks in their town. If you are able to do this (and don’t be scared, because Farm Sanctuary walks you through the whole process), you will single-handedly bring together your community to take steps toward compassion.
Photo: Farm Sanctuary , taken by Connie Pugh