United We Stand Divided We Fall Pt2
So, in light of the recent badger cull and the beginning of fox hunting season, it is sad to see some animal rights organisations turning not only against other members and other animal rights organisations, but against those who are not part of an organisation who are wanting to help as well.
To speak out about animal rights risks alienation in mainstream society, so to face alienation from a supposed ally in the fight for animal rights must be greatly disheartening and dissuading. Those who criticise ‘the public’ who are ‘only’ signing petitions risk alienating people from not only this cause but future AR causes in general.
People respond to ‘causes’ for different reasons, in different ways and at different speeds, it can take time for people to become involved in direct action and indeed they may never be involved in direct action, there are numerous ways to make a difference, but criticising them over their commitment at any stage risks losing them from the cause all together.
Whether you are in it for the glory, to make like-minded friends or purely to help the badgers/foxes, any positive action is better than no action, regardless of personal motives. Even a personal change in thought patterns can make the world of difference; highlighting the cause, talking to people and educating people on the subject is a means of working towards creating a more conscious world.
What does it matter whether or not you have been sabbing? How long you have been sabbing for? How many times you have been out on patrol? How much you have donated? Whether you work in the city, are an ex-cop, a gardener, unemployed or a student? This attitude stinks of the dogmatic old boys club, have you got the right handshake mentality. It is petty and discredits the animal rights movement as a whole.
We cannot divide ourselves, we must unite! To truly inspire change the animal rights movement must be accessible to all….Leave your ego’s at home humans, the rest of the animal kingdom needs us…
