The Death of Animal Rights
26 September 2009
by Anai Rhoads
AnaiRhoads.org -- If you've ever been on MySpace or Facebook, you may have noticed countless posts by individuals who add photos and news links related to animal cruelty. While these social network sites provide an outlet for animal rights activists to express their outrage, something is amiss.
Their friends lists consist of likeminded individuals and groups, however, those who oppose their pleas for animal protection are conspicuously absent. So, my question is - who are these individuals really targeting?
Their aim is to share solely within a group of people - who are doing the same thing. Going around in circles, the posts are ping ponged back and forth at an impressive pace. The core reasons people post these images and links may vary from sadness, horror to disbelief. Many are making a statement - "I am a vegan" or "I love animals." Some do it to raise awareness, which I am in favour of, however, some do it for personal attention. This well, just plain stinks.
Re-Exploitation
Exploitation of animals - in any way shape or form - should never be condoned. This includes the re-exploitation of their images. As a journalist, I tip-toe around a fine line between what is appropriate and what is deemed inappropriate. If I were to post a photo of your loved one dead or mutilated, I would get sued.
I am confident that you will agree that it would be highly inappropriate for me to cover a story and display your loved one in such a state. Some animal rights activists, however, do not have an issue with posting a photo, one that blatantly violates the animal's privacy. The animal is murdered or harmed, then displayed to only be exploited further. This act is exceptionally offensive and it totally disrespects the animal.
Aside from public exposure of these cruelties, not much else is being done. Keep in mind that I am not targeting those who post photos of domesticated animals in need of homes and the like. But I question the endless display of beaten, mutilated, tortured and deceased photos of animals. The purpose of the images draws in sympathy and indignation, however - who is really proactive in saving these animals? Real solutions are drowned out by the replies which only solidify the actual crimes.
A woman recently videotaped a chained dog as she was drinking water, to time how "thirsty" she was. The video, seen here, has been passed around the net countless times over the last several weeks. The replies praise the woman's efforts - but what exactly did she do to save the animal?
In the video she returns over the course of a few days to show how desperate the animal was for water. Well, here is my response - and you can quote me on it, "Thank you for giving water to the dog, but don't expect praise from me when you've only gained attention for your good deed. The dog is still chained. At least release it or contact a rescue group or animal control. If you spotted a human severely dehydrated the wheels would be in motion, not your video camera."
The posts you see on these networking and social websites most often than not - result in nothing. No real solutions. No thoughtful, valid discussion. Just information that often spurs on hate.
Hate Begets Hate
Having not really dealt with a personal medium like Facebook before, I was disappointed to discover people tirelessly posted mind-numbing photos of these poor animals in complete distress. However disturbing these images were, the replies were equally heartbreaking.
One poster responded to an article posted about a woman who stuffed a cat into the microwave, subsequently killing the animal, saying, "They should stick her (human) in the microwave and see how she likes it!" Another replied with, "Humans are evil. Send these fuckers to an island by themselves!"
Newsflash - if you want to actually make a difference in the lives of other animals - you will need humans. Picking and choosing which animal to love and save contradicts the whole basis of the animal rights movement. Humans are animals.
Lack of Persuasion
Animals don't "magically" protect themselves when faced with encroachment, hunting and sadistic abuse. Without proper (and intelligent) dialogue with those who aren't vegan or advocates for animal rights, you will never draw in people who would otherwise be persuaded to assist.
I appreciate any point of view - I welcome them all. I may not agree with what you're saying, but I want to hear it nonetheless. Over the years I have learned that the opposition can be beneficial to my own growth. Without other ideas, nothing is ever really gained or learned.
If you want peace, then create it. If you strive to save animals from cruelty - then end the cruelty you impose of human-animals. No matter what they've done, set the example by offering a more pacifistic point of view.
Next time someone tries to add you as a friend on MySpace or Facebook, go ahead and accept the request. They may not agree with what you have to say, but at least they took the time to listen. Your opposition is no different from you - they don't want someone in their face either. If you don't like a Bible-basher in your face, then my words shouldn't be lost on you.
When you post, do it wisely and consider why you are really doing it. If it's just for your group, then you are wasting your efforts on only those who agree with you.
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