The Retort

Turkey-Free – Way too Be

November 20th, 2009 by Beth Dopp For The Retort

The holidays really seem to bring out the best in people. At this time of year, even a fairly Grinch-ey person can be enticed to give to those less fortunate than themselves. The Salvation Army bell-ringers call to all who venture near stores to toss in any spare change. There are coat drives, food drives, and giving trees to support. It’s the season of caring, generosity, and thankfulness. In theory, this goodwill carries on throughout the year as no matter the season there are always poor, down-trodden individuals that need a little, or a lot, of help. I love the holidays. So while I realize you are about to be inundated with charitable requests which tug at your heartstrings, I want to bring to your attention one more deserving individual and to highlight one simple generously kind idea to bear in mind as you settle in for this holiday season. Her name is Hannah.

Hannah is a turkey. She was born into this world in dark, barren captivity, just as her mother had been before her, and before her, and so on. She was intended to be one of the 300,000 turkeys killed annually in the United States. The bulk of these turkeys are killed for holiday meals. However, Hannah was one lucky turkey. Instead of an untimely and painful death she was rescued from slaughter and sent to Farm Sanctuary, a group which, as the name implies, offers a safe haven to rescued farm animals. But, while Hannah was lucky and now enjoys a free life of foraging the grass and roosting in trees her mother, brothers, sisters, and countless other turkeys were not.

This year I urge you to count your own blessings of life and happiness and then extend a little kindness to those individuals, like Hannah, who are often overlooked in the spirit of holiday kindness. By reducing or eliminating animal products from your meals you can significantly reduce animal suffering, as well as improve your health and the health of the environment. It may truly surprise you just how satisfying a turkey-friendly holiday meal can be. If you need ideas check out: www.gentlethanksgiving.org

Have a happy (and gentle) Thanksgiving.

Beth Dopp, MSUB Alumni Class of 2008