April 5, 2007

April 4, 2007Hello!

The first of RMAD’s big blue distribution boxes has hit the streets. Point them out to friends and family, directing them to the Colorado’s best guide to vegetarianism. Veg is the lifestyle for 2007, whether it be for the animals, the environment (including climate change) or your health. There’s no reason not to go veg today.

Though they only offer one veggie burger, after many years of efforts by animal advocacy groups, Burger King, Inc. has announced a plan to decrease the suffering of many animals killed for its restaurants. Burger King has agreed to the following changes:

• Immediately begin purchasing 10 percent of its pig flesh from suppliers that do not use gestation crates – metal enclosures that confine mother pigs and are so restrictive that the animals cannot even stretch a limb or take a step – and double that amount by the end of 2007.

• Immediately begin purchasing 2 percent of its eggs from hens who are not confined to wire “battery cages” and more than double that amount by the end of 2007.

• Issue a statement to its egg suppliers saying that it will give purchasing preference to those that do not use battery cages.

• Issue a statement to its chicken-flesh suppliers stating that it will give purchasing preference to those that use or switch to “controlled-atmosphere killing” – which is by far the least cruel method of chicken slaughter available. RMAD is interested in knowing you all think about these proposed changes. Some questions to consider: Are incremental changes important? Do they alleviate the animals’ suffering? What should negotiation with corporations/entities that contribute to animal suffering look like when the stakes are this high? What becomes an area for compromise and what then, become our non-negotiables? Let us know what you think by emailing us at vegcolorado@rmad.org.

Finally, RMAD is looking for a committed volunteer to be in charge of our spring and summer tabling/outreach events coordination. We’re seeking someone to oversee the process from start to finish – from set-up to take-down. It’s a great way to get involved with the front lines of the organization, to meet people, and to introduce the public to the idea of compassion for all beings. If interested, please inquire within.

If you’d to help out as an outreach booth staffer, we’re also looking for help in that regards too. If you are interested in volunteering for these events, please email Chris Kirschbaum (more info on Chris below) or call the RMAD office at 303-449-4422.

Thanks for reading! Have a great weekend.