A couple of days ago, I attended the 6th Annual New Mexico Governor's Conference on THE LINK between ANIMAL ABUSE and HUMAN VIOLENCE ("Forming Positive Links"). Wow...it was amazing, important, devastating, disturbing, enlightening. I've been involved in animal welfare causes for a very long time, and always got frustrated when occasionally encountering folks who say, "what about children?" As if helping one is hurting the other! AS IF THERE IS A DIFFERENCE. Violence towards animals is a desensitizing precursor to violence towards humans. It's proven and widespread.
Some of the wonderful speakers included:
Phil Arkow, Director of The Link program of The American Humane Association, and officers/psychologists/directors from animal control agencies, domestic violence agencies, social service and children's agencies, and a veterinarian.
These LINK programs are held in states throughout the country. If you are so inclined, check it out where you live. Here's the info from AHA.
I will be putting energy towards one particular cause: ending dogfighting. If you want to learn more about this vile activity, which is shockingly prevalent in this country, take a look at Diane Jessup's site on the subject. I had the honor of knowing Diane when I worked in rescue in Washington state. She is a brilliant author and animal advocate, who speaks from a deep knowledge, having worked at a shelter for many years.
One very appropriate and very beautiful fact I learned at this seminar:
Man's first artwork showed pictures of animals.
Animals---our cohorts, our companions, our connection, our life source, our inspiration.
From the very beginning.
