It's Halloween! What Should You Do? October 31, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 15 ) | TrackBackHappy Halloween, everyone!
Here are four easy ways to celebrate the spookiest of holidays:
- Mars continues to fund tests on animals. Ask the company to stop. And don't buy Mars candy (like M&Ms and Snickers)!
- Send Halloween-y greetings to your friends and family with our fun Halloween e-card. Franken-Nugget? Heck yeah!
- E-mail us pictures of you wearing your Hairy-Kate and Trashley masks! We want to see you all Trollsened-out.
- Ooh and ahh over the picture of Nola below. Dogs dressed as skeletons are super cute!
So, what's your costume this year? I'm a modern-day Pippi Longstocking!
♥ Marta
Free Stuff Friday: New Bloc Party Album! October 31, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 77 ) | TrackBack
It's been a long time coming, but Bloc Party have finally released their long awaited 3rd album! It's been available for download since August, but was released in physical form as a CD this week. This is great news for those of us that like looking at the album art and memorizing all the words. This release is a cause for celebration, so we're giving away 5 copies of Bloc Party's new album, Intimacy, for this week's Free Stuff Friday!
Bloc Party are old peta2 buddies—we especially love Russell, who's a vegetarian and helped us out by picking the winner of our April 77/Meat is Murder t-shirt design contest—Nice choice, Lissack!
To win, post a comment below with your favorite Bloc Party song! Anyone else love "Like Eating Glass"? (I actually had a nightmare once that I was eating glass . . . it was weird.) This contest ends on November 7th, 2008 and the winner will be chosen and notified by November 14th, 2008!
Just so you know...by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
-Ashleigh
Cobra Starship Madness!! October 30, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Music food Cobra Starship green Pizza Pi
Time flies when you're having fun, so you can only imagine how fast the Cobra Starship Sassyback tour is going by.
Looking at this picture you may think, what the hell are the peta2 road warriors thinking? Well, in case you didn't know, all chickens killed for KFCs in Canada are now covered by a historic new animal welfare program. Not only will KFC's suppliers now be phasing in better handling and slaughter systems, but most Canadian KFC's have now added a vegan chicken patty to there menu!! You can only imagine how stoked we were to hit up a KFC before our show in Vancouver, BC.
In other news, Nate, the bassist for Sing It Loud signed our petition in Portland, OR.
And FYI: If you're ever in Seattle, WA, I highly suggest you go to Pizza Pi. It's an all VEGAN pizzeria. We pigged out on calzones, cheesy bread, and Mexican pizza.
And of course, here I am holding the fort down at the table with my sweet shades letting all of Boise, ID, know why Meat's Not Green. Remember: Animals raised for food in the U.S. produce 89,000 lbs of waste a second—that's 130 times the amount that humans produce. Crazy!
On our day off, we hung out in Reno, NV, and stumbled upon an awesome vegetarian restaurant called the Pneumatic Diner. We stuffed ourselves on some vegan nachos.
Tip of the week: Never drink a gallon of water in three hours when you're on a drive that only has gas stations every 100 miles—it's not fun. Well, I'm off to start celebrating my 23rd birthday—I hope to eat a pint of some delicious vegan ice cream!
Check out our tour dates on the peta2 MySpace and come hang out.
Stay Sassy
Susie B
Win Limited-Edition "Too Much Poop" Toilet Paper Rolls! October 30, 2008
Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 15 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
vegetarian funny poop Meat's Not Green toilet paper prize
Then, it hit us...peta2 toilet paper rolls! The results are nothing less than amazing!
Check 'em out below, and then enter to be 1 of 75 lucky winners!
Fun, right? Of course, you can't win a roll if you don't enter below, so what are you waiting for?!
By filling out this form, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Heads up: By signing up here and giving us your details, you are acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
The contest ends, and winners will be notified, on 11/26, so get to it!
- Ryan!
Know Anyone In California? October 30, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBackDo you know about Prop 2 in California which would reduce suffering for egg laying hens, mother pigs currently kept in gestation crates, and veal calves? You can read all about it here.
I mean, I don't believe it's ok to eat animals (I would never be able to slice open even the most well-treated animal's throat and eat his or her body parts), but the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act would phase out some of the worst cruelty which pigs, chickens, and cows endure, and that's a good thing overall.
If you are in California please send the info to every voter you know.
And while I'm on the topic of California, may I add that the peta2 conference in San Francisco last weekend was awesome! In addition to eating at good restaurants like Herbivore and Millennium, going for a hike at Muir Woods, sleeping in a closet (long story), and walking around with a bunch of zombies, I had the privilege of meeting a bunch of you from the Street Team! Here's a photo I took of a crew who came up from the Los Angeles area.
Happy (belated) Diwali, by the way!
Kellie Pickler Goes Vegetarian for the Animals! October 29, 2008
Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 8 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
vegetarian Pamela Anderson celebs gossip animal cruelty Carrie Underwood World's Sexiest Vegetarian Kellie Pickler American Idol
Copyright: NPX/starmaxinc.com
Taking a cue from her pal, fellow country superstar and former Sexiest Vegetarian Alive, Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler has stopped eating animals! Oh, and we had a little part to play in her decision, too, dontcha know.
The former American Idol contestant, red-hot country sensation, and reformed rare steak lover recently told People Magazine that she first decided to give up meat for health reasons, but then one night she was randomly Googling (which always leads to cool finds!) and came across one of Pamela Anderson's TV ads, which lead her to our many videos. Our wonderful Pam strikes again!
"One night I couldn't sleep and I was up just Googling random stuff and I'm like, 'Hmmm, PETA.' I saw all the videos and I just thought it was horrible. It's animal cruelty. A lot of it has to do with knowing what happens to the animals and it really bothered me and so I will not eat meat."
It's been five months and Kellie, who says she used to eat rare steak all of the time, is not looking back. And with good friends like Carrie for support, we see a long, healthy, meat-free future for Kellie, who incidentally is getting my vote for World's Sexiest Vegetarian of 2009!
xox
Patricia
P.S. Which peta2 video has had the biggest impact on you or someone you know, and why? Comment below—we love hearing from you!
Protesting the Trollsen Twins in NYC! October 28, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 9 ) | TrackBackIf you were passing Barnes & Noble Union Square in NYC today, you likely stopped to see what the heck was going on. The Olsen Twins were promoting their new book Influence, which means, of course, that peta2 was outside the store letting fans of the Trollsen Twins know that the twins still support the cruel fur industry by wearing fur and including it in their clothing line.
With Halloween just around the corner, Street Teamers wore our Hairy-Kate and Trashley" masks and held signs that said, "Hairy Kate and Trashley Olsen: Fur Tramps" and "Trollsens: Fur Hags From Hell." I wish I could have been there!
Check out some pictures:
Seriously, I can't believe some people still think it's "fashionable" to wear the skins of animals.
What do you think of the demonstration?
♥ Marta
If You're Going to Go Vegan in San Francisco... (w/ LOTS of Pictures!) October 28, 2008
Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
KFC peta2 conference zombies san francisco protestors
We here in peta2 just returned from our visit to "the left coast" for the peta2 National Conference in San Francisco. As with any peta2 event, good times were had by all, and we had the opportunity to meet tons of amazing Street Teamers, college activists, and other local peta2 supporters.
For those who were there (and those who wish they were), here's a little recap:
Marta, Pulin, and Dan at the peta2 merchandise table. They're all so gosh-darned huggable, aren't they?
It's Skinny Bitch coauthor, Rory Freedman!
Getting ready for the zombie-themed "I'd Rather Be Dead Than Eat KFC" protest!
We're coming for you, Colonel!
"Hey KFC, what do you say? How many chickens tortured today?"
Nobody dared enter the drive-thru while we were there!
So where should we come next?!
- Ryan!
Call Amazon.com. Tell Them To Stop Selling Fur October 28, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Zappos.com Amazon.com
Here's a question for you. What would you say to a company which sells fur despite knowing about the suffering of animals who are often electrocuted, drowned, or beaten to death for their skins?
While I do care about what your answer is (hopefully it would be polite, but passionate), I really want to encourage you to contact Amazon.com immediately and give them a piece of your mind.
Amazon.com sells fur despite our polite attempts to have them reconsider.
The way we see it, sending them an email is great. What's even better is to speak to an actual human being, though, by calling their corporate headquarters. Give a call to Amazon.com at (206) 622-2335 and push 0. Tell whoever answers that you refuse to support Amazon.com while the company profits off animals' suffering for the fur industry.
With one of their competitors, Zappos.com, recently putting a fur-free policy in place, it's time for Amazon.com to also make a wise, ethical choice.
Help us out, will you? Call Amazon.com at (206) 622-2335 and push 0. Email StreetTeam@peta2.com with what time you called and how it went. And we'll give you 250 Street Team points for helping out, ok?
Thanks!
Do You Have An Animal Rights Cell Phone? October 28, 2008
Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 403 ) | TrackBackSo, if you're anything like me, you're constantly texting. I text while I'm walking, biking, working out, and even getting tattooed (yes, that's right! - oh, and I bet you're thankful I don't drive right!?). Up until I got a job in peta2, I hated talking on the phone, so I would always rather text. It's the best way to keep in touch with all of my friends back home in Detroit and all of our amazing road warriors out on tour right now for peta2!
Like everything else in my life, I have to work animal rights in there somewhere! That's why my Sidekick (I told you I was serious about texting), has a huge green "VEG" sticker on the back, so everyone can always get the message of veganism, no matter where I am.
Check out these oh so awesome peta2 and PETA staffers and interns rocking stickers on their phones (Shan's holding mine!):
(Why yes, that is CutOutDissection.com on the left!)
So get to it! We'll even give you 1000 Street Team points for putting a sticker on your phone and sending in a picture of it! Just email us at StreetTeam@peta2.com with your report and picture. Don't have stickers? Order some for free!
Hopefully this will give you one more super easy way to start up conversations about animal rights with your friends!
Stay Loud!
- Rachel
Vote Here! (And watch the best video ever!) October 27, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 14 ) | TrackBackRemember when I told you to enter your cuter-than-cute younger siblings in PETAKids' Second Annual World's Cutest Vegetarian Kid Contest?
Well, we sifted through hundreds of adorable youngsters and we have decided on six finalists. Head over to PETAKids and vote for your favorites!
I also wanted to share some other cuteness:
Nine year old Liam is vegan and awesome! I think he may be the next Murs! Comment below with your favorite line from the song. Mine is "Your body is a grave to those you enslave".
I hope these dedicated kids inspire you to get active for animals! Looking for things you can do? Join the street team!
-Ashleigh
Joan Jett's Veggie Testimonial October 27, 2008
Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Vegan vegetarian celeb Meat's Not Green PSA Joan Jett
Few women can say they rock as hard as Joan Jett, just ask peta2 staffer Ashleigh who may or may not be dressing as the "original riot grrrl" for Halloween this year. We'll just have to wait and see.
But one thing's for certain, Joan is one of the most outspoken vegans you'll ever meet. And not in a preachy sort of way either, she's too cool to lecture anyone. Instead she chooses to hit you with the facts about the devastating toll that the meat industry has on the environment. Check it out.
Joan gave meat the boot almost 20 years ago after finding out what happens to animals raised and killed for food. Find out what else she had to say when we picked her brain during her PSA photo shoot. Oh, and you'll also find out why she's one of my (and Ashleigh's) heroes.
xox
Patricia
Cut Out Dissection Month Continues October 27, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Dissection biology award
Hello! How's it going with Cut Out Dissection month?
Is your calendar coming in handy?
Are you totally fascinated with the peta2 intern who changed her name to CutoutDissection.com?
I wanted to give a quick mention of something that the organization Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) is doing called The Cut Above Awards for Dissection Alternatives. PCRM is giving one middle or high school student and one middle or high school teacher an award. Each recipient wins $2,000, including $1,000 for himself or herself and $1,000 for his or her school!
You can check out details here if you have done a lot to promote alternatives to dissection and want a shot at winning. And for sure, pass the info along to any teachers who you think would be interested.
Enjoy the rest of your day, my friends.
The Killers On... Killing! October 24, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 13 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Music fur The Killers China Fur
I like The Killers just as much as anyone else. I mean, who doesn't like The Killers? You'd be crazy not to. I can't hear a song like "Mr. Brightside" or the new single, "Human", without wanting to indulge in my own personal dance party. So it goes without saying, that when I saw new promo photos floating around the internet of a band member draped in what appeared to be skinned animals, I was needless to say, bitterly disappointed as I'm sure were many.
What some don't realize is that fur isn't glamorous at all. Animals like rabbits, coyote, and even dogs and cats—are gassed, electrocuted, and even skinned alive, all in the name of fashion. When I see a fur coat, I don't see a fabulous luxury item—I see a graveyard on someone's back!
Now we know the Killers to be caring people (they even donated 100% of their profits from their Christmas single to charity, for crying out loud!) so we decided that there must be a mistake and wrote to the band (nicely, of course!), letting them know exactly what goes into the making of a fur garment, and hoping the fur in the promo shot was a (VERY realistic) faux fur alternative, and asking the band to watch undercover footage of just how fur is made.
The good news? Almost immediately, we heard back from the band's management who let us know that the fur was fake fur, and that the band is completely against fur. So, as it turns out, The Killers aren't glorifying the real killers after all, and I can rest easier when I listen to their fabulous cover of Joy Division's "Shadowplay."
xo -
Shan
(Taste of) Chaos in the UK! October 24, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Music UK Taste of Chaos green
The first week of Taste of Chaos International in the UK is now officially underway and I'm already meeting lots of awesome Street Teamers!
In case you're wondering, the tour features the following bands: Atreyu, Story of the Year, As I Lay Dying, Mucc, Horse The Band, and some local bands.
The tour has been wicked so far! On this year's Taste of Chaos International people are seeing why Meat's Not Green, and YOU can see why, too, here (if you don't already know). We told Security at the gigs that the United Nations found that meat is the number one cause of global warming and they didn't hesitate to sign the petition.
Three things before I peace out:
Go to Pulse in Norwich.
Get one of the new peta2 shirts and be cool like Street Teamer David!
Come out to the gigs and say hello, and sign the petition!
26/10 Dundee - Fat Sam's Live
27/10 Glasgow - ABC
29/10 Liverpool - Carling Academy
30/10 Manchester - Academy
31/10 Oxford - Carling Academy
Cheers mates!
-Cody
Free Stuff Friday: One Can Make A Difference! October 24, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 57 ) | TrackBackWe have a very literary Free Stuff Friday for you today: Ingrid Newkirk's newest book One Can Make a Difference!
I think she explains it best in this video:
This book illustrates the fact that the desire and determination of ONE PERSON can create an entire movement and make the world a better place. YOU can make a difference! Be inspired by Stella and Paul McCartney, Russell Simmons, Kevin Bacon, the Reverend Al Sharpton, and dozens of others. You don't have to be rich and famous to help, so get out there and do something!
We're giving away a copy of the book, so comment below telling us how you make a difference in the lives of others to be the lucky winner!
Comment now because this contest ends November 7, 2008 and the winner will be chosen and notified by November 14, 2008!
Just so you know...by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
-Ashleigh
Midwest or Bust! October 23, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
food Cobra Starship green Sing It Loud Veggie Bite
This week on the Cobra Starship tour we hit up the Midwest and started the journey to the west coast. We visited the Mall of America, I got my very first piercing ever, and we met up with other peta2 road warriors and had some amazing food.
In Chicago we stopped at a place called Veggie Bite to grab a bite to eat. Joey is feasting on vegan chili cheese nachos and a chocolate soy shake. Delicious!
In Milwaukee I got my very first piercing ever—a Monroe piercing.
In Kansas City, Joey got all saddled up.
Ken worked the table and talked about why Meat's Not Green.
Ben, the keyboardist for Sing It Loud, signed our petition.
A pretty eventful week! I'm looking forward to west coast madness and warmer weather. Check out the peta2 MySpace to see when we're coming to a town near you.
Stay sassy
Susie B
22 Charges Filed Based on PETA Investigation at Hormel Supplier October 23, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 8 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
pigs woof Hormel undercover investigation charges
Here's a special guest blog from PETA's Christine Dore.
It's with a proud and ecstatic heart that I report this news today! Our investigation into an Iowa pig farm that breeds piglets destined for Hormel has resulted in 22—that's right, count them—22 criminal charges.
The Greene County Sheriff just announced in a news release that six individuals employed by the farm at the time of PETA's investigation now face a total of 22 counts of livestock neglect and abuse. Those charged include a former farm manager—who we understand still works on another pig factory farm—and a supervisor, as well as two individuals who still punch the clock at the Iowa factory farm as we speak.
A whopping 14 of the counts are aggravated misdemeanors—the stiffest possible charges under Iowa state law for crimes committed against farmed animals—carrying up to two years behind bars. To PETA's knowledge, this is unprecedented.
Charges based on PETA's undercover investigations are now pending against pig factory farmers in both Iowa—the nation's top pig-raising state—and North Carolina, which occupies the second rung on that dubious list!
This is a small victory for farmed animals, but we mustn't forget that Hormel, which financially supports this farm, has by all appearances yet to make any changes as a result of this investigation. It has refused to meet with us or even watch all of the footage, which we have repeatedly offered to show the company. Maybe now that the law has spoken up, Hormel will finally listen.
Please, urge Hormel to take action now.
-Christine
Warning: This Blog Will Make You Want to Go To School... October 23, 2008
Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
vegetarian northwestern colleges rankings UT OU
Well, if you attend one of peta2's Most Vegetarian-Friendly Colleges it will!
That's right, ladies and gents. After months of deliberations, we have finally released our 2008 nominees. Say it with me now: "Ooooohhhh....Aaahhhhh...."
Sure, I could just list off all of the amazing vegetarian and vegan options available in school dining halls across the nation (*cough* vegan chili cheese fries, Hawaiian veggie BBQ riblets, vegan enchiladas, vegan brownies *cough*), but I've found that pictures work sooo much better:
Vegan Pizza Margherita with Soy Cheese at Ohio University
Veggie "Chicken" Picatta Over Herb Linguine at Northwestern University
Vegan Brownies at the University of Texas
Doesn't that last picture just make you want to reach out and grab a bite?
This isn't a staring contest though! It's time to vote for the schools that you think deserve to win!
Click HERE (or on the bracket below) to pick your favorites now, and we'll even send you a FREE POSTER!
Aaaaannndddd... break!
- Ryan!
Win NBA2K9 featuring The Cool Kids! October 22, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 180 ) | TrackBackBasketball is like hip-hop—it all flows from a solid foundation in the fundamentals. But the true greats leap from foundation into the uncharted depths of the freestyle. It's jazz, son. And no one knows that better than peta2 pals The Cool Kids, who are all over the just-released NBA2K9. Enter to win a copy below!
NBA2K9 captures the improvisational nature of basketball better than any game I've ever played. So it's no surprise that The Cool Kids, peta2's favorite Chicago heads and owners of the realest freestyle in hip-hop today, not only contributed an original track for the game's soundtrack, but are playable characters in the game itself and are even headlining the game's promotional tour.
peta2 knows a little bit about the Kids' tour styles—they were nice enough to bring us out with them on their last run to spread the word about animals killed for their fur—and we can personally attest that these shows are not to be missed. Another thing not to miss: peta2's interview with the Kids where they talk about why fur is whacker than a whole closet full of Craig Sager's suits.
So are we agreed then? Fur sucks? Good. To celebrate our new arrangement, comment on this post with your fave Cool Kids track to enter to win a copy of NBA 2K9. Let us know what system you want it for (XBOX360, PS3, PS2, or PC). Anyone who already has it and posts a screengrab of Chuck English posterizing Kobe Bryant wins an extra-special prize. Don't say we never did nothin' for you.
This contest ends November 5th, 2008 and one winner will be chosen and notified that same day.
FYI, by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy. Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
- Dan
Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment! October 22, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 48 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
vote dumb comments
Oh how I never tire of compiling the comments for this blog. Do you think the people who sent us these would be embarrassed if they saw this blog? Or do you think they'd simply say "HA! I sure got them good!"?
You know the deal: Names removed to protect the idiotic parties, and I've thrown some asterisks in the expletives. Enjoy:
1) hello peta. u guys r a** holes leave rodeo alone leave horse racing alone ok b**** ur all vegitarians well i eat real food reply back bitcfh
2) personally I believe that PETA is wrongly accused of being a good organization. I really believe that u and all your supporters can lick my n*t s**k and burn in hell. F*** u all. animals were put on earth to eat! think about it if your ancestors didnt eat meat in the early life times u wouldnt be here a**hole. u guys are sick they way u say animals are humans too f*** u I'm a true hunter and i have many KILLS under my belt and I'm soooooooo proud of it because i hate u f***ers and it makes even sweeter. pLus i eat the meat it soooooooo healthy for u.i hope u know that u and your veggie fag friends know that because i eat meat i actually am stronger smarter and healthier than u! If u have a n*t s**k b**** then write me back!
3) You are a stupid idiot. God gave us these animals for food. He gave man the authority over all animals. I tell ya what, you prove to me that it is wrong to eat animals, and I will kiss your rear. Oh yeah, I butcher 99% of ALL our meat to eat, that includes rabbits(yes, the easter bunny tastes good) chickens, hogs, and deer.
4) F*** U U ANIMAL F***IN A**HOLES I EAT STEAK I USE THAM AS CLOTHES I HUNT ALLIGATORS AND WEAR THEM!!!!! THEN MY DAD SHOOTS ELEPHANTS AND LEAVES THEM THERE A**WAD HAHAHAHAHAHAHA F*** U!!!
5) i want to drop live cows on your house off a helicopter and watch them splat and hopefully kill all the vegans
Which is your favorite? Let me know by leaving a comment below!
♥ Marta
P.S. Be sure to check out past installments of "Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment" here.
peta2 and PETA shirts at Delia's and Forever 21! October 22, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 15 ) | TrackBackYou read the blog title right, ladies! Delia's and Forever 21 are now selling some of THE CUTEST SHIRTS EVER! Check out Forever 21's Club Soda, Not Seals, Friend or Food, and Delia's I'd Rather Go Naked!
Wearing these shirts helps spread the message that the Canadian seal hunt is horrific and unacceptable; that animals should not be used for food; and that wearing fur is cruel.
Comment below with your favorite and then get your cute animal-loving butts to the mall!
-Ashleigh
Cross Country with Comeback Kid October 21, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBackWe started our week with Comeback Kid in Vancouver, BC! From day one the Meat's Not Green campaign was really well received. Never heard of it? Well take a peek.
The idea is simple—and brilliant if I do say so: Since factory farming is the NUMBER ONE cause of pollution, (yup, first, numero uno, gold medal of pollution causing) we're asking that all factory farmed meat packages provide more information about the environmental effects of factory farming. For example, it takes about 16 lbs of grain to produce 1 lb of meat. That's not economically or environmentally friendly. That would give everyone the knowledge and power to make their own educated choice when making a purchase—that's fair, right?!
So who knows meat's not green? Besides the nearly 21,000 people who already signed to help save the planet, Jeremy from Comeback Kid and Ryan from Misery Signals! Both of these vegan boys were rocking our Meat's Not Green buttons.
I would like to take a second to mention going the extra mile. Sometimes, we are outside in the cold so we bundle up, or on Warped Tour we buy booty shorts, but this Road Warrior takes the prize. What do you do in dark venues where it's hard to sign petitions? Rock a head lamp.
And it wouldn't be one of Paige's blogs without a shout out to vegan food. Thanks to Gorilla Food in Vancouver providing us with tasty raw food, like basil pizza!
And Comet Café in Milwaukee for open face "meat loaf" sandwiches.
Jam Out
Paige
Victory: Zappos.com Is Now Fur-Free October 21, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
fur Trollsens Zappos.com Amazon.com Twitter
You people are absolutely great. Just about a month after we launched a campaign to persuade Zappos.com, the biggest online retailer of shoes in the world, to stop selling fur, we have a victory to announce!
Yes! Zappos.com has agreed to stop selling all fur. Zappos.com joins Target, QVC, Home Shopping Network, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Forever 21, Wet Seal and dozens of other companies and designers that have gone fur-free.
Thousands of people pressured this company with emails and phone calls, plus Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Look at you all being savvy when it comes to animal rights!
It wasn't too long ago that I had posted this blog pledging to boycott Zappos.com because they sold fur. But I'm happy to say that I'll support them again. (It's especially easy since they have this section of non-leather shoes.)
If you are inspired (and you should be) by this victory, why don't you direct your energy towards getting Amazon.com to stop selling fur? All you have to do is email Jeff Bezos, CEO here, and politely tell him that Amazon.com should stop selling fur like its competitor Zappos.com has done.
Thanks!
P.S.- I hear that Zappos.com CEO Tony Hsieh is going to be on Oprah this week along with the Trollsens. They're going to be talking about how they manage to be so young and successful. I bet it's going to include quotes from Tony like "I listen to customers and make compassionate, responsible choices," whereas the Trollsens may say things like, "Muuuaaahhhhaaahahahaaaa! We'll profit off anyone with a soul to steal."
Remembering Melissa Tindell October 21, 2008
Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 17 ) | TrackBackIn a world where every day people struggle to remember the fact that they were born with the gift of compassion, some people give their lives for it.
Today, we in peta2 are remembering Melissa Tindell, a 13 year old girl who gave her life trying to rescue a kitten from being hit by a car in front of her local bus stop. You can read more about her story here.
There's no doubt in any of our minds that Melissa, who according to her parents loved cats and horses, would've grown up to be an amazing advocate for animals in every way, and we are humbled by her bravery and courage to help others in need. Melissa's father was quoted as saying the way his daughter died was a reflection of how loving and caring she was, and we agree. We are sending her family a certificate in memory of Melissa and her love for animals.
In honor of Melissa, go out and do something for animals in need. Whether it's handing someone a sticker or volunteering at a local animal shelter, please do something to remember that even the smallest act of kindness makes a difference.
Most of the time, I love my job in peta2 because of the silly demonstrations we do, and the fun things we get to write about. Today I love my job because of the honor I have in recognizing that compassion like this exists in the world.
Thank you Melissa, for being an inspiration.
- Rachel
UPDATE: Hormel Supplier Investigation October 20, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
pigs woof Hormel undercover investigation Iowa
Remember the shocking footage from an undercover investigation of a factory farm in Iowa that raises pigs destined for Hormel? PETA's undercover investigators documented workers repeatedly hitting pigs with metal gate rods and canes, a worker slamming the heads of piglet "runts" into the floor, and a supervisor who shoved a cane into a sow's vagina and talked about sexually abusing pigs.
Even after the farm changed ownership and management during the investigation, this horrifying treatment and abuse of animals continued.
That being said, we have just released previously unseen footage from the investigation, showing the farm manager kicking and shocking a crippled pig. Can you believe he's still the manager on the farm?!
Other Viewing Options
In the video, the manager is seen shocking a pig with an electric prod and kicking her—both violations of the farm owner's own written policy—in a prolonged attempt to make her stand, which is a requirement for pigs sold for slaughter. The suffering sow, who was unable to stand due to crippled hind limbs, was left in pen for two days, bleeding from a severed hoof, until she was ultimately shot and killed.
This shocking footage was recorded the very next working day after PETA's undercover investigator reported the abuse of pigs that he had seen at the farm to this very manager.
I seriously can't believe that this man is still the farm manager. Think about it: he is responsible for overseeing other employees and how they treat the pigs in that factory farm. Do you think someone who is treating pigs this way is a good example for his employees on the humane handling of animals?
Our demands of Hormel stand firm despite the company's continued failure to respond to our attempts to work with them. Join us in renewing our ask of Hormel. Demand that they enact meaningful reforms to prevent this sort of abuse from occurring on its suppliers' farms.
What do you think about the fact that the same man is still the farm manager?
Update: We wanted to make sure that it's clear to our readers that we offered several times to show Hormel and the farm's management ALL the footage that was taken during PETA's undercover investigation at the supplier's farm—including the above footage of the manager. Neither Hormel nor the farm's management took us up on our offer.
♥ Marta
ATTN: Fans of Rise Against October 20, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Rise Against concerts green
Hello everybody!
Many of you, I'm sure, have heard a band called Rise Against, and if your ears are functioning well you also love and admire their musical ability and already have tickets to see them on their current tour when it passes close to you. If they alone can't seal your attendance I'm sure Alkaline Trio, Thrice, and The Gaslight Anthem will. This is one of the best tours in years, no doubt—get your tickets here!
So when you get to the show and head inside you'll need to find a booth that looks like the one below and join in with thousands of other people who have already voiced their support by agreeing that Meat's Not Green! Yep, it's the facts: Meat production and raising animals for food is the number one cause of global warming. No it's not cars, or planes, or even SUVs—it's hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the other disgusting things they grind animals into after they've been abused on factory farms. Ick!
Well OK, I'm sure you're bursting with anticipation of watching these amazing bands play for you soon enough, but be sure to take a minute and speak up in defense of the earth we live on—if this planet burns up where will you go to see amazing shows like this in future? Let's save this place. Thanks!
-The peta2 Road Warriors
Free Stuff Friday: New Cut Class, Not Frogs Shirt October 17, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 233 ) | TrackBackWho doesn't love the "Cut Class, Not Frogs" slogan? It's catchy and draws attention to the animals who are killed for the dissection industry!
Considering we're smack in the middle of "Cut Out Dissection" month, it seems like the perfect time to give away our recently redesigned "Cut Class, Not Frogs" t-shirt!
It's available in either fitted/girly (yellow) or standard (blue). And if you're in no mood to mess around with a contest, you can save yourself the waiting and just buy one here. But hey, contests are fun, too, right?
To enter to win, comment below with one word you would use to describe how you feel about dissections.
This contest ends October 31, 2008 and one winner will be chosen and notified that same day since it's the last day of "Cut Out Dissection" month!
FYI, by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy. Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Thanks and good luck! Now let's hear what you have to say about dissection.
-Pulin
P.S. Have you seen the new CutOutDissection.com site yet? It's awesome!
The peta2 Advice Blog October 17, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
cruelty-free Animal Testing advice
We all could use a little advice from time-to-time. Check out what peta2 staffers have to say to a Street Teamer below.
I was over at my best friend's house and noticed she has a bunch of products that are tested on animals! I really want to say something, but I don't want to make her feel bad or offend her. Suggestions? - Doesn't Know What To Do
Ah, I totally know where you're coming from. I freaked out when I first went through all my products after I went vegan and realized I had a bunch of stuff that was tested on animals. My suggestion is to take our "How Cruelty-Free Is Your Morning Routine?" quiz with her. That way, when she takes the quiz, she'll see all the products she already owns that are cruelty-free, and then you can work from there. After the quiz, be sure to tell her about any great products you use that are cruelty-free—I'm sure she'll appreciate that. Sending her a link to a contest to win cruelty-free products won't hurt, either. :o) - Marta
This is always a tough situation! But I'm sure your friend wouldn't want to buy products that are tested on bunnies, cats, monkeys, and other adorable animals if she only knew :o). Buying cruelty free is one of the easiest things you can do to be more compassionate to animals—and we make it even easier with our cruelty-free shopping guide. I always tell my friends when something is tested on animals, because all of them, veg or not, love animals, and don't want them to suffer for something as lame as hairspray or hand soap. This should be an easy win for you! :o) - Rachel
Well, it seems clear to me that your friend is simply unaware of which products support cruel tests on animals, and which don't. Why else would she buy them? As such, the best thing you could do would be to lead by example, and show her some of the cruelty-free products that you pick up at the grocery store (for me, that means Method, Tom's of Maine, and White Rain). Make sure to mention why you pick cruelty-free products (I can think of millions of good reasons), so that your friend will learn how to be über-cool, just like you! - Ryan!
Have a question (that relates to animal rights, of course!) that you're dying for us to answer? E-mail peta2@peta2.com with the subject line "Help me peta2! I need advice!" and your question just may be answered by us in our next advice blog!
Comment with your own advice for Doesn't Know What To Do! And to read past installments of the advice blog, click here.
Support peta2 on SocialVibe! October 16, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
socialvibe donate
Have you heard of SocialVibe yet? It's a cool site where you sign up for a badge for your MySpace, Facebook, Bebo, etc. When you post a badge, you earn $1 for PETA and more starts rolling in every time someone views your page. Sweet deal! Support animal rights. Help raise money for a good cause. Awesome! Sign up here.
1) Signup at socialvibe.com/peta2.
2) Pick your favorite company to act as the sponsor.
3) Create your own custom badge for your MySpace or Facebook profile.
4) Post the badge (as long as you have the badge on your profile you will be earning money to support PETA).
5) Most importantly invite your friends.
This is a super easy way to show your love for peta2, animal rights, and help earn donations for the cause.
Oh and there are tons of Street Team points for you with this, too. We;ll automatically credit them (no need to email us or submit a report for points) as follows:
- 500 points for signing up and posting a badge on your page.
- 500 more points for inviting at least 5 friends.
- 1,000 extra points on top of everything for everyone who signed up if we reach the goal .
That sounds simple enough, I think, so get to it at socialvibe.com/peta2.
Your Chance: Ask Our Undercover Investigators A Question October 16, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 17 ) | TrackBackHave you ever wondered what it's like to be an investigator? Someone who goes undercover in factory farms, slaughterhouses, laboratories, and other animal abusing facilities to film what's really happening for the world to see?
These brave men and women have nothing but my utmost respect. After all, to me, being an undercover investigator seems like one of the hardest jobs out there.
Remember this investigation into a pig factory farm in Iowa? Please check it out if you haven't yet, and ask Hormel to follow PETA's eight-point policy to govern future pig-farming operations.
The incredible people who went undercover for this particular investigation have agreed to answer some questions for you. We hear from curious people all the time who wonder what it's like to be an undercover investigator, so this is your chance to find out. What would you like to ask the investigators? Comment below with your question.
My question would be: How were you able to keep yourself from screaming when the piglets were being slammed into the ground? I would have lost it.
We'll post the answers to 5-10 questions here on the blog (unfortunately, we can't have the investigators answer all of your questions), so be sure to keep an eye out.
♥ Marta
Vegan Cake and the Yum Yum Crew October 16, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 2 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Cobra Starship tour green Detroit Web of Life
The first official week of the Cobra Starship tour just ended and it was packed full of good food, long drives, late nights, awesome people, and good times!!
You may notice a new face in a few of the pictures. That's one of our awesome Street Teamers (and good friend) Roxy from Dayton, OH. Interested in joining our Street Team? Check it out here.
As we were making our way from Cleveland to Detroit we stopped at Web of Life right outside of Cleveland. Roxy and Joey took on some mighty large pieces of yummy vegan cake and dominated that shiz.
Roxy and Joey ready to go! Talk about the Ohio kids keeping it on lock down.
Joey above and Roxy below informing everyone in Detroit, MI, about our Meat's Not Green campaign. Did you know that farmed animals use more than half the water consumed in the US?
We're in the Midwest for the next few days which should prove to be nothing short of amazing, as it is one of my favorite parts of the country. Check out our tour dates on peta2's MySpace and come dance!!!
Stay Sassy
Susie B
Chris P. Carrot and Nugget: A New Hope October 15, 2008
Posted by Lara Sanders | Permalink | Comments ( 2 ) | TrackBackThe last presidential debate is on tonight, and I'm greatly disappointed that presidential hopeful Chris P. Carrot will not be taking part. I want to hear from Mr. Carrot on the issue most dear to his heart and mine—getting America to go vegetarian! To me, Chris P. Carrot stands for all the things that make America great.
Check out this important message from Chris P. Carrot, and you'll see my point:
Inspiring...I felt goose bumps of hope while watching it. Did you?
What makes Chris P. Carrot even better is his fantastic choice in running mate: Nugget!
Check out peta2's YouTube channel for more amazing videos!
xoxo-Lara
P.S. As a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, we can't and don't endorse or oppose any candidate running for election or any political party. We also can't and won't approve comments about the actual election or the candidates running—so don't do it!
5 Questions with... The Red Paintings! October 15, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBackI'm back with another installment of our "5 Questions With" blogs! This time, it's with the up and coming art-rock band, The Red Paintings, a new personal favorite of mine! Check them out, and if you want a great place to talk about all aspects of animal rights, visit their message board! - xo, shan
NAME OF BAND: The Red Paintings
BAND MEMBERS: Trash McSweeney
SOUNDS LIKE: Orchestral Art Rock
How long have you been vegetarian/ vegan and what made you start? I have only been a full-time vegetarian for the last six months, although I have been challenging myself to adopt a vegan lifestyle. I have found that veganism is a lot harder to maintain in Australia due to a lack of vegan restaurants and products.
I have been holding "Animal Rebellion Marches" in Australia over the past two years but it was not until our recent U.S.A. tour that I realized how important it was for everyone to stop eating animals. On that tour I met a lovely lady named Susan Weingartner who is actually on the Board of Directors for the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. They are well-known for their work with rescuing whales from slaughter. I spent a few weeks with Susan in L.A. watching many animal rights films including "Earthlings" and "Lolita". We went to a farm sanctuary called "Animal Acres" to meet animals that had been rescued from cruel farming conditions or had been dumped on the streets.
Since those experiences my life has never been the same. Through Susan I was able to meet many animal activists and they helped me to see the animal holocaust around us and it is a very frightening realization.
Now, I feel it is my duty to speak up for all animals as they can not speak for themselves. The most effective and simple way to stand up for animals, I believe, is to stop eating them.
What's your favorite vegetarian/vegan meal? I was taken to some amazing vegan restaurants in L.A. I recall eating an incredible vegan pizza, but my favorite vegan food would have to be vegan burritos. I was lucky enough to have one recently, when I was invited onto the "Steve Irwin" Sea Shepherd ship for a vegan meal. It was great to spend quailty time with the crew on board and they seemed like such lovely, hardworking people who dedicate their lives to such a great cause.
Everyone involved in animal rights has an issue that really sticks out for them. What is that issue for you? I feel strongly about all of those issues, but the issue of factory farming has probably created the most impact on my lifestyle choices to date because it has made me stop eating animals for good. Of course, I am still learning so much every day about all of these issues and hopefully, in due time, I can help others understand these problems as well. It is important for us all to be more conscience of the effects of animal cruelty - not only on animals, but on people and the environment as well.
If a fan came to you with advice on how to get involved with animal rights, what would you tell them? Engaging in conversations with people about animal rights issues is so important for any action to occur. Whether a person is a highly experienced animal rights activist, or is thinking about these issues for the first time, it is through the exchange of their own knowledge, experience and ideas with others that instigates them to do something more.
Therefore, if a fan came to me with advice on becoming more active, or I was to give a fan advice, the best place to begin would be to share our thoughts. This is something I have hoped to achieve on my band website's forum where we have begun discussing animal rights issues with fans. The discussions have been quite productive with people sharing viewpoints from both sides and has also given the forum a lot of new energy and purpose. We are always looking for new people to join the discussions so please come take a look: http://trpboard.proboards24.com/
What's next for The Red Paintings? For the remainder of 2008, I have just locked the band in to playing our first animal rights festivals around Australia. But, I think our biggest achievement will be the Sea Shepherd benefit/farewell show in Brisbane, Australia. It is taking place a few days before they take off to tackle the Japanesse whaling ships. I'm a big supporter of what Captain Paul Watson and his crew have achieved in the oceans over the last 30 years, saving the lives of many whales. I am disgusted, however, that our Australian Government is charging the boat over $400 a day in berthing fees during its time in Brisbane before they leave on their next campaign against Japanese whalers. My aim is to hold a free event for the Sea Shepherd to help raise public awareness of the fees imposed on them and to raise funds for their cause.
Come 2009, we will be releasing our new album, "The Revolution is Never Coming", with many surprises in store.
www.theredpaintings.com
www.myspace.com/theredpaintings
Zombies Take Over NYC! October 14, 2008
Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 11 ) | TrackBackThis past weekend was the peta2 National Conference in New York City, and boy did we rock the Big Apple!
Attendees enjoyed talks and discussion panels on a variety of topics, including "how to answer the tough questions" and "how to help animals online", plus a visit from our special guest, MTV icon John Norris!
For many people though, the highlight came at the end of the day, when we headed to midtown Manhattan for a "zombie" protest against KFC!
Yep, all in all, it was a pretty amazing trip! The visit also inspired me to want to start a New York-specific campaign called "KFC? Fuhgetaboutit". :)
Don't forget though, we still have a conference coming to the West Coast in less than 2 weeks! Will those crazy Californians and their neighbors show up the East Coast kids? Only time will tell! To book your space, click here.
See you soon!
- Ryan!
Shanna Moakler's Veggie Testimonial October 13, 2008
Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBackShanna Moakler and her children are proud vegetarians, and they want the world to know it. That's why the actor, model, and former beauty queen became the latest celeb to star in PETA's veggie testimonial series. Check out her PSA—I swear she has the best smile of anyone ever.
There were several reasons Shanna decided to stop eating animals but to her the most important reason was the health of her children and her own health, as well. And the fact that she's making a difference in the lives of animals is important to Shanna, too. As a mom she's making sure that her children understand that if they wouldn't eat their beloved dog Biscuit, who makes a cameo in the PSA, they shouldn't eat any other animal either.
Shanna says that she does feel better after eliminating the flesh from her diet. "I don't think I really realized what I was putting into my body and the actual effects that it was having on me so now I feel so much healthier and I have so much more energy and foods taste better..." Check out what else she has to say about how going veg has changed her life and what she thinks about fur in the behind-the-scenes footage from her PSA shoot.
xox
Patricia
Here (Sea) Kitty Kitty October 13, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
fish Hunting vegetarian Sea Kittens Prince Coolio
I would like you to meet my friend Mr.
Yea, that's the full name sort of like how Prince and Coolio and others have just one name.
Mr. is a sea kitten who loves to play in fresh water and is notorious for putting up a fight if you try to pick on him or his friends. He and I have that in common, for sure.
I consulted with Mr. to come up with the five best things you can do to help sea kittens. Here's what we came up with in no particular order:
1) Put a sea kitten banner on your page.
2) Create your own sea kitten and set him or her as your default on MySpace, Facebook, or Bebo.
3) Send a letter to protect sea kittens from being hunted.
4) Take part in this Street Team mission.
5) Read some Sea Kitten stories.
Obviously, the most important thing is to go vegetarian and stop people from eating these kittens of the sea.
Mr. and I thank you.
Delicious Food From Coast to Coast October 13, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 5 ) | TrackBackHola, Homies. Road Warriors checking in with a very important topic at hand: Eating while driving 3,100 miles from Norfolk, VA, to Vancouver, BC.
We were handed a great opportunity to get some really amazing vegan food, and boy did we seize the day on this one...
On our way to start the Comeback Kid tour to help the environment and animals with the "Meat's Not Green" petition, we first stopped at Sunflower Vegetarian Café in Vienna, VA, where we got down on lo mein, General Tso's, and "fried chicken."
After many grueling hours in the van we found ourselves in the twin cities where there are sooooo many veg choices, but we had to hit up my favorite—Hardtimes Café. Homemade peanut butter cups, vegan rancheros, Seitan Sandos, and biscuits and gravy. I know it's been a while but this was a collage worthy event.
WARNING: the following picture contains deliciousness overload; please try not to drool on your computer.
We also ran into a little trouble in Fargo, ND. We may or may not have locked the keys in the van. Oops!
Eventually we made it to Seattle with oh-so-many veg choices, so we hit up a few:
- Pizza Pi (one of two totally vegan pizzerias in the US)
- Wayward Café
Try not to be jealous—helping animals and eating great vegan food can be your life too! Check out the jobs and internships at peta2.
I'll get back to you from Canada.
Jam out.
Paige
'Humane Breast Cancer Research' Sample Letter October 12, 2008
Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack
We all want to find a cure for breast cancer, but torturing animals in the name of research has proved to be an ineffective and deadly route to follow.
Many people don't know that charities like Susan B. Komen and others continue to spend billions of dollars on killing animals in tests that simply don't help women. The use of animals for breast cancer research is unreliable because of animals' significant genetic, cellular, and physiological differences from humans. Former National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Richard Klausner has stated, "The history of cancer research has been the history of curing cancer in the mouse. We have cured mice of cancer for decades, and it simply didn't work in humans." Monkeys, dogs, cats, bunnies, and other animals continue to be torn away from their mothers, be locked in cages, and have chemicals injected into them, and they are killed and cut apart as a result of these useless experiments—and the misleading results can pose real risks to human health.
The good news is that humane, non-animal research and prevention work is being conducted by Keep A Breast, Love/Avon Army of Women, American Breast Cancer Foundation, and others that focus on how breast cancer starts in women's bodies and on identifying ways to combat the genetic and environmental factors that increase the risk of developing breast cancer. I believe that this is how we will cure breast cancer—not by torturing animals in useless tests that have already proved to be ineffective.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please support the humane and effective search for a cure by supporting charities that don't waste money killing animals while women die. Please visit www.humaneseal.com to find out how to help.
Meet Zoe The Sea Kitten! October 10, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBackSo by now, I'm sure you're familiar with sea kittens, and I want you to meet my number one BFF, Zoe the Sea Kitten! Not only is my friend a kitten of the sea, but she's ready for Halloween and is dressed up as a tunacorn! Yep, you heard me right... a tunacorn. She would have dressed up as Hairy Kate and Trashley, but the masks didn't quite fit her. Bummer for her, but you still can!
Create Your Own Sea Kitten at peta2.com!
Zoe and I have a lot of things in common (we're both pretty stoked on the new Alkaline Trio, unicorns, and guacamole, just to name a few), but the number one thing we agree on is that sea kittens are your friends, not food! Find out what you can do today to help millions of sea kittens just like Zoe.
She thanks you!
xo,
shan
Leona Lewis - Harrods Fur Snub! October 10, 2008
Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Music fur leather celebs Topshop Leona Lewis Harrods Harvey Nichols
Today's blog features guest blogger, peta2 UK's Violet...
In just one more thing to add to our "Reasons That peta2 Are In Love With Leona Lewis" list, the beautiful Leona proved that her compassion is NOT for sale when she rejected a £1m offer from Harrods boss Mohammed Fayed to open this year's summer sale because of the department stores ruthless pelt pushing record. Harrods is the only department store in the UK that continues to sell real fur! Come on Harrods, get out of the dark ages and take a leaf out of Harvey Nichols' book!
Photo: Michael Germana/Star Max Inc.
Leona said, "I'm totally against animal cruelty. I don't have clothes, shoes or bags made from animal products."
Also on the Leona front - rumour has it that she's been in talks with Sir Philip Green about creating a range of non-leather bags and shoes for Topshop!!! Right, I'm off to Pilates so I can get fighting fit, ready for the inevitable scramble at the unveiling!! Watch out ladies; see you at the front of the queue!!!
*Violet
x
Free Stuff Friday: Halloween Candy! October 10, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 268 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Halloween candy Free Stuff Friday Pangea
It's no secret that I love Halloween. Did you see my zombie costume from last year? It's also well-known that I could eat my weight in candy and sweets. Needless to say, trick-or-treating was a favorite childhood pastime. What could be better then a bunch of free candy?
I will tell you what's better: a bunch of free VEGAN candy! Check out this gorgeous basket from Pangea that we are giving away to THREE lucky mavericks!
Feast your eyes on: VeganSweets Caramels, "Vampire's Lunch" Gummy Candies, Orange Candy Tree lollipops, and an Endangered Species chocolate bar. All these candies are made without mashed-up cow skin, bones, cartilage, or bugs (nothing sweet about those ingredients), and they're not tested on animals (have you heard about Mars?)
It's going to be very hard not to choose myself as a winner . . . but I will resist, so comment below with your favorite vegan candy to win this basket of goodies!
You've got the weekend to enter because this contest ends October 13, 2008 and the three winners will be chosen and notified that same day! (We want to make sure your candy gets to you in time for Halloween!)
Just so you know...by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Yum yum!
-Ashleigh
5 Questions with... Teen Hearts! October 9, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 7 ) | TrackBackHave you ever read one of those quick "5 Questions With" features in a music magazine with an up and coming band? Whenever I read music magazines, these are usually the first things I look for. I'm always really excited to stock my iPod with new music, and I'm sure you are too. Imagine though, if... (drumroll please) you could read one of these features and know that every band you read about is involved with animal rights? Well, now you can! Check out peta2's new "5 Questions With" blog, featuring Teen Hearts, and let me know what you think! (be sure to check out their sweet video too!) - xo, shan
NAME OF BAND: TEEN HEARTS
MEMBERS: Kelly Orr, Matt Moody, Charity Gant, Max Cuzor
SOUNDS LIKE: Metro Station, Cobra Starship, Hellogoodbye
How long have you been vegetarian, and what made you start? I've been vegetarian for 8 years now. To be completely honest, I was persuaded by some of my favorite bands back in the day. Alkaline Trio, Goldfinger etc. I remember going to Goldfinger shows and hearing all about vegetarianism and how you can be just as healthy without eating any sort of meat. I did a little research and found out about SOOOOOOO many alternatives to eating meat. I was shocked at how many companies were out there that provided meat substitutes for vegetarians and vegans. Some products at first were a little weird and chewy but after a week I seriously grew to like the substitutes more than actual meat. And sadly I found out about all the awful things that happened to these poor little animals behind closed doors. I will NEVER go back!! YUCK!!!
What's your favorite vegetarian meal? Hands down my favorite vegetarian meal is the salisbury seitan meal from Real Food Daily but instead of the vegan caesar salad I substitute the salad for black beans!! OH MAN!!! I'm so going there for lunch :)
Everyone involved in animal rights has an issue that really sticks out for them. What is that issue for you? Ya know, there are a lot of issues that really stand out to me, but I really don't like to bash people over the head with my beliefs and tell them what's right or wrong. I have friends that wear clothing made of animals or eat meat on a daily basis but I can't control them. I think it's something you need to figure out for yourself and realize that eating meat is not the best thing for you. I think the main reason people eat meat is because it's simple and always everywhere you go "convenient". So many people are lazy and don't want to put any effort into eating healthy.
If a fan came to you with advice on how to get involved with animal rights, what would you tell them? First off I would tell them that it is the best decision I ever made. Secondly, I would tell them to make sure it's right for you and find out for yourself. There are some awesome books (Diet for a New America) and I would also suggest some organizations to check out (PETA) but most importantly find out for yourself and do the research.
What's next for Teen Hearts? Our debut EP "The Heart Beat EP" will be released digitally October 21st. November 3rd - 21st we will be touring with Jeffree Star and Brokencyde. So come and hang out with us!!!! We also printed 1,000 copies of our EP to sell on our online merch store, so you should probably head on over there and pick up some awesome t-shirts and some sweet tunes!!! WWW.WESTASPENMERCH.COM/TEENHEARTS
<3 Kelly and TEEN HEARTS!!!
Do Rabbits Scream? October 9, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 18 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
fur Investigation rabbits Giorgio Armani
We have a disturbing new undercover expose of rabbit fur farms from China and France. If you are against cruelty to animals, please sign our petition encouraging designer Giorgio Armani to permanently remove fur from all his collections. And then spread the word to everyone you know.
In the video footage, workers pull rabbits out of cages by their ears and shoot the screaming animals in the head with captive-bolt guns, often multiple times. Rabbits with slit throats can be seen twitching and shaking, with their eyes wide open, before they die. You can also see and hear rabbits kicking and screaming during slaughter. After the skin is ripped from the rabbits' bodies, it is sold to designers such as Giorgio Armani—who uses rabbit fur in his new designs.
Please contact Giorgio Armani and urge him to keep the promise that he made by permanently removing all fur from his collections.
Also, leave a comment below with one thing you are doing to spread the word about this video (blog, IM, bulletin, email, showing a family member, etc).
Thanks.
Win a Sea Kittens Shirt! October 9, 2008
Posted by Ashleigh | Permalink | Comments ( 175 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
Contest free shirt CafePress Sea Kittens
My sea kitten Bubbles is a hardcore trout who loves to go to shows and dance her fins off!
Create Your Own Sea Kitten at peta2.com!
Bubbles is all about piercings, but not when they are unexpected! She hates fishing and hooks more than anything in the world. Sign here to save her!
Want to represent for the lovely and amazing sea kittens? Comment below with why you want to save the sea kittens to win a shirt!
Comment now because this contest ends October 23, 2008 and the two winners will be chosen and notified by October 30, 2008!
Just so you know...by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Save the Sea Kittens!
-Ashleigh
Who Is Cutout Dissection.com? October 9, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 393 ) | TrackBackIt's October and you know that that means: It's Cut Out Dissection month!
I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Cut Out Dissection month then by introducing you to Cutout Dissection.com herself. That's right, a PETA intern (formally known as Jennifer Thornburg) has officially changed her name to Cutout Dissection.com. What made her decide to do this? Read my interview with her to get the lowdown.
What made you decide to change your name?
I changed my name in order to raise awareness about the six million animals that are killed for dissection each year. These animals suffer painful deaths and their bodies are then used in labs when computer stimulations, diagrams, or 3D models could be used instead. Cutting up animals in school sends the message to students that an animal's life is worthless. I don't think that's a message teachers should be sending. With so many cheaper, more educational and humane ways to learn, there is no reason for students to be dissecting in high schools today. I hope to raise awareness on this subject, and to cause teachers and students to say no to dissection, and yes to alternative ways to learn anatomy.
Did you dissect in high school?
In middle school I dissected a chicken. I wasn't into the idea of dissecting an animal, but when I asked my teacher for an alternative, he said that I could only have it if I went vegetarian for the two weeks leading up to the dissection. I thought that was crazy, at the time, so I went through with the project. Looking back, I can't remember much from the actual dissection; I know now that using an alternative would have been much more educational, and I also know that it's definitely not crazy to be a vegetarian, too.
What do people call you now?
My fellow interns call me Cutout, but my family still calls me Jenny. My favorite thing to do is to introduce myself to people as Cutout Dissection.com, which always raises a few questions. This gives me a chance to explain a few facts about dissection—such as how cats are sometimes pumped with formaldehyde while they're still conscious.
What have people's reactions been to your name?
Cutout is one of those names that you have to say three times, spell out, and use in a sentence before people process it. Once people get my name down, they normally want to know why I changed it. This gives me a chance to tell them about the estimated six million animals used in high school dissection labs throughout the United States every year. Once people learn how the animals are gassed, pumped with formaldehyde, drowned or otherwise inhumanly killed for dissection, they are shocked and want to know what they can do to help.
You're obviously very passionate about educating people about dissection. Why is that?
Two years ago, I was an active Street Team member of peta2. I was trying to rake up some points in order to trade them in for a shirt, and I got an email saying that anything that I did relating to dissection during the month of October would be double the points. Because of this, I decided to work on getting a dissection choice policy passed at my high school. When I started to research policies and why dissection is bad for the school, students, and animals, it became an obsession of mine. My senior exit project and my junior year were both dedicated to getting a dissection choice policy passed at my high school. I was shocked when I read about how much more educational the alternatives to dissection can be, how much money they can save for the school, and how many lives could be spared; it's shocking to me that schools still use dissection as a part of their science lessons when there are so many humane and equally educational alternatives out there that will also save the school money.
I know you got the policy passed at your school. Congrats! How excited were you?
I was super excited to say the very least!
I can imagine. What did the DMV say when you got your new license?
It took me two tries to get my license. On the second try, the DMV worker looked very amused and confused, but also looked like she was afraid to ask for an explanation. When she finally did ask about it, I had a good conversation with her, explaining that Cutoutdissection.com is a real website, and then explaining why I'm against dissection. She seemed repulsed by the thought of animals being drowned, pumped full of formaldehyde, and gassed as a way of death. She also looked shocked when I told her that it affects six million animals per year. When she called over another worker to be a witness to my paperwork, the other worker grinned and said "Oh, I remember her!" (It happened to be the worker who I talked to on my first attempt to get my license). Overall, it was a great opportunity to start a conversation about alternatives to dissection!
Make like Cutout and spread the word about dissection! Stream "Classroom Cut-Ups" on your page, do everything on our "Cut Out Dissection" calendar, and join the thousands who've signed our pledge to refuse to dissect.
What do you think of the name change?
♥ Marta
Sherman the Sea Kitten October 8, 2008
Posted by Lara Sanders | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
fish sea kitten fish are friends not food
I would like you to meet my friend Sherman. Sherman is a sea kitten.
Sherman wants you to help save the sea kittens, which you can do here. You can also create your own sea kitten here. Sherman also asked me to tell you to make a lovely lady sea kitten that is into ironic mustaches.
xoxo- Lara
Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment! October 8, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 61 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
vote dumb comments
Yup, it's time for another installment of ridiculous comments for you. People are weird...
As usual, names removed to protect the idiotic parties, and I've thrown some asterisks in the expletives. Enjoy:
1) No offence but you guys are really stupid No one gives a s**tt about the earth And people love meat So shut up
2) sometimes i go into the woods and chop up little bunnies with little cotton tales just for fun. i would like to talk more but i gotta go bludgeon a seal, i need a new pair of socks.
3) GO F*** YOUR SELF I LOVE EATING F***ING MEAT YOU NEED TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HUMAN BODY BEFORE YOU JUDGE THOSE WHO EAT MEAT DUNMASSES!
4) i ate bamby for breakfast
5) this is gay vegatarians are gYay meat is the greatest thing on tha planet wtf is in ur guys head r u on crack GO MEAT EATERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Which one is your favorite this time? Vote by commenting below!
♥ Marta
P.S. Be sure to check out past installments of "Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment" here.
Get Vegetarian Food in Schools Across the Country October 7, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 24 ) | TrackBack
TAGGED:
food cafeteria school lunch USDA Child Nutrition Act
Do you like to eat? Do you wish your school had more vegetarian food? Or just better food in general? Read on—this is really important.
In the new year, the USDA will be reviewing the Child Nutrition Act, which, amongst other things, covers the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The USDA is accepting comments on how to revise the program until October 15th—um, more vegetarian food, most definitely—so please write today!
To send a message, either use this form, or send an an e-mail to CNDProposal@fns.usda.gov.
Here's a few things to remember when writing your e-mail:
- Be polite. Being mean about the lack of vegetarian options your school has won't help. Besides, you're too nice to be mean.
- Explain that you care about your health, the environment, and animals, and vegetarian food supports all of those things. Not to mention that everyone deserves to be accomodated regarding their ethical, religious, and dietary preferences.
- List some options of what you'd like to see added. Bean and rice burritos, soy hot dogs, veggie burgers, and veggie chicken nuggets are all a good start. Go here for more ideas.
- Mention your school specifically and how much you and your classmates would love vegetarian options!
- Ask for soymilk as an alternative to dairy milk. It's great for vegans, those who are lactose-intolerant, and soy enthusiasts!
- Be sure to say thanks for taking your thoughts into consideration.
It is so, so important for every single one of you to write to the USDA and ask them to include vegetarian and vegan meals in the National School Lunch Program. And please, have your parents write in, too. The more people that write in, the better. Change happens when people speak up (or in this case, write in)—the Child Nutrition Act is only reviewed every four years, so let's do something now!
Want more ways to get vegan options in your school's cafeteria? Check this out! What vegan options are you going to ask for in your e-mail?
♥ Marta
OMG Sea Kittens Are Being Killed! October 7, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 11 ) | TrackBackWe have an amazingly cute new campaign to tell you about: "Save the Sea Kittens!" What are sea kittens? They're fish, of course! In the campaign, we're asking the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to stop promoting the hunting of sea kittens (otherwise known as "fishing"). Send the FWS a letter now!
Sea kittens feel pain just as all animals do, so we need to help them! To learn a little more about sea kittens, check out our Sea Kitten Bedtime Stories.
And guess what? You can create your own sea kitten! Check out mine below, then click here to create your own!
Create Your Own Sea Kitten at peta2.com!
My unicorn princess sea kitten, Aurora, loves to get all dolled up, but she still needs her floaties! You'll get to see several other peta2 staffers sea kittens this week, so keep an eye on the blog.
Want some Street Team points, too?
- Go here and grab a desktop background to save to your comp
- Set it as your default on MySpace, Facebook, or Bebo, then e-mail us at StreetTeam@peta2.com
After you post your own sea kitten on your page, be sure to post the name of your cutie as a comment on this blog, too.
Sea Kittens FTW!
♥ Marta
Free Stuff Friday: Halloween Makeup! October 3, 2008
Posted by Lara Sanders | Permalink | Comments ( 243 ) | TrackBackHappy October everyone! I love this time of year because it means that one of my favorite holidays, Halloween, is almost upon us! I love dressing up and doing intense Halloween make-up. Check out my zombie costume from last year:
This year I think I am going to do something different, though I don't know exactly what (see below to help me decide!). I do know that I will be hitting up Fantasy Makers Halloween makeup from Markwins (the cruelty-free mavens who also make Wet n Wild, Black Radiance and Tropez cosmetics lines). The Fantasy Makers line has everything! I want to incorporate these eyelashes into my costume somehow...
To help you have the best costume ever, the compassionate folks at Markwins are giving you the chance to win a prize pack of some of their most hauntingly beautiful products. Two lucky winners will get a prize pack containing Deadly Rose nail color, R.I.P. glowing nail color, Silver Pixie loose confetti, Witches Charm lashes, a Red Devil Kit, Wicked Talons, and Wild & Wicked Tattoos!
Comment below with what I should be for Halloween this year for a chance to win!
This contest ends October 10, 2008 and the winner will be chosen and notified the same day.
Just so you know...by commenting here, we're taking that as acknowledgment that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.
Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Good luck!
-Ashleigh
Who Loves Rise Against? October 2, 2008
Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 19 ) | TrackBackToday is a very, very good day. peta2 staffers are in Cleveland, Ohio kicking off the Rise Against, Alkaline Trio, Thrice, and Gaslight Anthem tour. Could there be a line up that's any better than that? Yeah, I didn't think so!
Tomorrow will be an even better day for me, as Pulin and I will be flying to Canada for the second and third shows of the tour. Not only are we going to eat copious amounts of vegan KFC sandwiches while we're in Canada, but we'll be spreading the word that "Meat's Not Green". That's right, our friends in Rise Against have invited us to come along on the tour, and we'll be at every show letting everyone know that factory farming is not only a cruel industry for animals, but it's also cruel for the environment. Raising animals for food generates more greenhouse gas emissions (See Also: Cause of global warming!) than the entire transportation industry combined! In my opinion, going vegetarian should be synonymous with going green.
We think that Rise Against's video for "Ready to Fall" is a perfect visual to accompany this campaign. This is the version you won't see on television. Check it out below!
Find out why "Meat's Not Green"!
Not only will we be on the Rise Against tour, but when you get their new album, Appeal to Reason, in stores October 7th, you'll be greeted with a peta2 "Meat's Not Green" sticker once you open it. How awesome is that? We love Rise Against because they're passionate about speaking out for animals and the environment (it doesn't hurt that their music rules either, right?)
The tour dates are posted, the peta2 van is loaded, and we're ready to meet you! We'll have peta2 staff members at every show, and if you're interested in helping us out with getting petitions signed for Meat's Not Green, all you have to do is stop by the table.
Will we see you there?
xoxo,
Shan
Why Not Be a Troll This Halloween? October 2, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 14 ) | TrackBackBy now, most of you are probably familiar with our Trollsen Twins campaign. We're always looking for new ways to raise awareness about the campaign and the fact that Mary-Kate and Ashley still support the cruel fur industry. Remember our "Mail the Trollsen Twins Your Hair" mission?
Anyway, with Halloween creeping up quickly, we thought, "Why not make Trollsen Twins masks?" And of course, we wanted you to be able to get in on the action, too, so go here to order your masks in time for Halloween. Heads up, though: we can only send the masks to people in the US, Canada, and UK. Live somewhere else? Print off the masks for yourself here (I recommend printing them on regular paper and then attaching them to something more sturdy).
Check out Lara and Rachel all trolled out in the masks:
Lookin' classy as usual
Trying to escape the paparazzi
WTF is Trashley doing?
Attempting to look less trollish
We want to see your pictures, too! When the big day rolls around, be sure to get someone to snap a few pictures of you and your friend wearing your masks/costumes and then e-mail them to us for 500 Street Team points. If your picture shows you and your friend wearing the masks at a party, at school, or some other public place, we'll give you an additional 1,500 points.
Remember: Dressing as the Trollsen Twins on Halloween is a great way to start a discussion with people about the fact that animals are gassed, anally and vaginally electrocuted, and skinned alive for their fur. They have no voice, so your costume can speak out for them!
So, are you gonna grab a friend and dress up as Hairy-Kate and Trashley?
♥ Marta
PS - Don't forget to watch our video, send the twins a letter, and "dress up" the Trollsens!
Gandhi's Birthday! October 2, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBackDid you know that today, October 2nd, is Mahatma Gandhi's birthday (and World Farm Animals Day)? For all of us committed to making the world a better place through nonviolent living, it's a really important day to remember one of the most influential social justice advocates in history. Gandhi's stance on vegetarianism is foundational to the belief that we will not have a peaceful society while others are suffering. It's so true, don't you agree?
Although he passed away a long time ago, Gandhi's legacy continues to inspire people of all ages to speak out against injustice. I hope you know that you are making a difference with every shirt you wear supporting animal rights, each video you upload to YouTube which allows people to witness the cruelty otherwise hidden in slaughterhouses, and all those times you take action as part of the Street Team. Thank you for doing something to help!
petaDishoom's (it's like peta2 but in India!) first ever March for Animals took place in Pune recently to commemorate Gandhi's birthday, and it was a major success with over three hundred people attending! Everyone held signs and shouted slogans urging people to go vegetarian, and they all had a great time.
Here is a photo from the march and another where some students spelled out "Go Veg" with their bodies... rad!
I love when people from all over the world come together to make a difference. For those of you who can make it, we have a couple big conferences coming up in the US, so read more about that here. If the idea of being around hundreds of students who are all into animal rights seems exciting—well it is. We hope to see you soon!
peta2 National Conferences (Now with Celebrities!) October 2, 2008
Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBackThat's right! The peta2 National Conferences are quickly approaching (NYC in 9 days!), and we've got some exciting announcements!
In addition to the amazing workshops, delicious vegan food, massive demonstrations, free stickers, DVDs, posters, and other items conference attendees get, in New York we will be joined by none other than everyone's favorite vegan TV personality, MTV's John Norris!
Don't worry though West Coasters, we didn't forget you! Attendees of our conference in San Francisco will have the pleasure of engaging in a Q&A with the vegan author of the no-nonsense best-seller Skinny Bitch, Rory Freedman!
If you haven't already booked your spot at one of these events, what are you waiting for? Click HERE (or on the image below), to register now!
See you soon!
- Ryan!
Crowd Surfing Nugget? October 1, 2008
Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBackOn our second week out on the college scene we got together with SPAR, the animal rights organization from Michigan State University, to help green their dining halls! Why? Funny you should ask—factory farming is the number one cause of global warming, water, and air pollution. For reals. So the crew at MSU and peta2 road warriors did it up to make a difference.
A special thanks to Drew and Mitch! Get your college active, too.
We also hit up Boston for the weekend, hanging at college fest to kick off the Meat's Not Green campaign. Everyone wanted to party with the nugget.
And of course our crowd surfing nugget!
All of this made these warriors mighty hungry—what's new? So we hit up TJ Scallywaggles, a fully vegan pizza shop with calzones and everything!
More to come soon. Our fall tours are about to kick off with Rise Against, Comeback Kid, and hellogoodbye. Check out our MySpace page for the dates!
Stay Brutal,
Paige
Meat's Not Green Video October 1, 2008
Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBackHave you seen the new Meat's Not Green site?
There is plenty of evidence out there to back up what we're saying about the connection between saving the planet and helping animals including this recent article which talks about how, "(g)oing vegan—giving up meat and dairy products—would cut the emissions released in making what you eat more than seven-fold..." Pretty powerful stuff!
Meat's Not Green is such an incredible campaign, and one of my favorite parts of it is the video that talks about how the meat industry causes so much destruction to the planet.
It's informative and pretty short, so check it out.
Find out why "Meat's Not Green"!
If you post the video on your own page and send us a link to StreetTeam@peta2.com, we'll drop 500 points into your Street Team account towards free hoodies, shirts, stickers, and other merch. Since you are sitting at your computer right now, why not just go ahead and do it? Grab the code to repost or download it right here.
Thanks!
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