Say What? Moments in Animals Rights

This week two events happened that made me do a double take! I've been following and supporting animal rights for years now in many different capacities (I was vegan for almost an entire year!), but these are headlines I didn't see coming.

PETA, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is looking to add porn to it's list of activities. You read correctly. While many companies are buying up their .xxx names so others won't be able to use their likeness in ways that might not flow with their mission statements, Peta is looking to use this opportunity to get you think about saving the bunnies while you rub one out. According to announcements I've read, Peta will give you a small taste of fun before showing you more graphic images of animal slaughter. It's great to raise awareness, but at what cost? The people who might be willing to visit a site like this may have other concerns on their mind than reducing animal harm. As much as I'm ok watching porn and fighting for animal rights, these are not two venues I would combine to cut down on time. Frankly, I think Peta is going to attract more unscrupulous types than real activist.

In cool but probably not going to change the world news, the West Hollywood, CA city council has just voted to be the first fur-free city. That means the sale of furs will be illegal within this city limits which is comprised of less than 3 miles. This only includes sales for clothing and not for furniture or leather, also a huge impact toward animal deaths. Fur will still be sold in the next town over, Beverly Hills, so some activist aren't ready to cross the fur industry off their list. Nevertheless, CA and Hollywood specifically likes to be the driving force behind a lot of issues; this one may just be their next big hit.