Animal activist whistle-blowers: why defending them is defending democracy

Recently the Australian government has been cracking down on vegan animal activist whistle-blowers. Activists entering farms to capture footage may be able to face up to $200 000 fines as of this year, this is despite the fact that activists have captured countless footage of animal cruelty (both legal and illegal practices) in Aussie farms … Continue reading Animal activist whistle-blowers: why defending them is defending democracy

What’s the issue with ‘hero worshipping’ in activism?

We hear the phrase 'hero worshipping' a lot in the animal activist community, especially with the recent rise of public celebrity faces in the movement. Usually it's described as a problem, but I think there's a little more to understand about the rise of celebrities in activism. So I thought I'd break down my thoughts … Continue reading What’s the issue with ‘hero worshipping’ in activism?

Responding to the infamous ‘But plants have feelings too’

During a recent presentation I gave about veganism, I was asked by a member of the audience during Q&A - "plants are living things too, so why eat plants?"   I know many advocates roll their eyes at this question, and fair enough, many people ask it to be deliberately antagonising. But then there are … Continue reading Responding to the infamous ‘But plants have feelings too’

Street conversations: talking about veganism effectively

When you are talking to someone not only about a sometimes unpopular topic, but one that may also attempt to dismantle their lifelong beliefs, there are some important things to consider. As part of my team at Animal Rights South Australia, one of the more regular forms of outreach we engage in is street education. … Continue reading Street conversations: talking about veganism effectively