As cattle producers, parents of livestock showmen and meat consumers we have all been approached at one point or another by a member of an animal extremist group. These vegan extremist groups are constantly pushing for political policy changes as well as trying to change the public’s mindset on meat consumption and the production of meat. For years I have wondered why they were so demanding on making me (or any meat eater for that matter) change my mind about what I eat or raise.
Full disclosure – I am a hunting cattlewoman who was raised by hunting cattlemen that were born from hunting cattlemen, my mind is made up in this debate. Meat in almost any form is delicious and a staple in my household.
I also have always found it curious that I think a rare rib eye or medium rare lamb chops cooked over a red oak pit are the most delicious things out there but I have never followed a vegetarian or vegan around and tried to convince them to eat my way. So what’s the deal in trying to change my mind? Why would a vegan extremist think that they could change my opinion or find any satisfaction in trying?
Why would a vegan extremist think that they could change my mind or find any satisfaction trying?
Then I came across an article that blew my mind on Protect the Harvest, “They Will Never Stop – The Vegan Extremist Mindset.” This article is quite a read but I believe the time is worth it to get a small glimpse at what we are up against AS AN INDUSTRY! This isn’t just about getting every meat consumer to stop eating meat, it is about stopping the entire way of life associated with what meat consumption represents – farmers, ranchers, showmen, hobby farmers with livestock – everything! The author takes the time to really illustrate that we aren’t up against a foe that is rational in their thinking or reasonable in their compromises, we are up against a foe that will not stop. Read that again – WILL NOT STOP. At first that realization terrified me for a multitude of reasons but mostly because as a rancher we always worry about passing our legacy on to the next generation, what does this mean for them? If, as the article states, we cannot stop them and they have been indoctrinated in their beliefs from very early on then what can we do?
If we cannot stop them and they have been indoctrinated from very early on then what can we do?
Bottom line is we need to stop focusing on the extremists, they are not going to be converted or ever see eye to eye with other groups. We need to be proactive in educating the public and being advocates for our industry. Instead of being silent and hoping this will all blow over we need to positively share our stories and practices so people can better understand what it is we do and why it is important. We need to not let the negative trigger a harsh reaction and paint us in a negative way. As the agricultural community we need to realize that standing up to these groups is most effective when we stand up for ourselves and ignore the chatter.
So here is my new challenge to you – find a way to share a little bit about our world as often as you can. Social media post, talking to friends or even a stranger in the grocery store, share some positive agriculture and invite questions. Don’t react to the negative just value and comment on the positive you get back – let’s see what happens!
I also encourage you to check out the Protect The Harvest website. They have always got up to date information on political policies, great educational resources and resources about how to get involved.
Pacific Coast Cattle 