Most producers have, by now, heard about the Oprah show this week that was entitled “How We Treat the Animals We Eat.” The show featured California ballot initiative Proposition 2. Below is a summary of the airing; followed by editorial comments made by Greg Henderson, Drovers magazine.
I normally don’t make editorial comments myself, but I believe this is a wake-up call for all farmers and ranchers. You MUST stand-up and be heard. You have to tell your story, because, as the episode illustrates, if you don’t, someone else will.
Consumers want to understand what you do on your farm and why; and only YOU can share your story. Farmers and ranchers are among the most respected and hard-working in this country and in general, most people are asking questions about your practices to ensure their families are safe and healthy.
Please take action and communicate with your neighbors and your community how you take good care of your animals and your land. Each positive interaction you have will make a difference! If you need more motivation to speak-up, just take 10 minutes to read the comments that Oprah viewers are making in regards to this show – I promise it will make you take action immediately.
“I believe how we treat the least of being among us determines our own humanity,” Oprah said in opening remarks on the show.
Reporter Lisa Ling visited both free-range farms and “factory” farms to show viewers the differences in how animals are raised. On the set of the program, Oprah stood next to replicas of cages and crates to show the size of some animals’ quarters in large-scale farm operations. Those who support California’s Proposition 2 say these animals have a right to more space during their lives. Opponents claim the new law would drive up costs, put farmers out of business and end the egg industry in California, and deny consumers the right to choose less-expensive food.
Wayne Pacelle, president of the Humane Society of the United States, told Oprah’s audience that he supports Proposition 2. “This is just about basic decency,” he said. “It’s about, if animals are going to be raised for food – and that’s certainly the case in this country – then the least we can do for them is allow them to move. I mean, what’s more basic that allowing animals with legs and wings to move around?”
The show, however, was not one-sided. Opponents of Proposition 2 also had their say. Ryan Armstrong, a third-generation egg farmer from California, told the audience that if Proposition 2 passes, it will make eggs produced in California too expensive for most consumers, creating the possibility that eggs will be imported from places without these animal housing laws.
Oprah’s show provided an opportunity for opponents of Proposition 2 to voice their concerns over the possible new law. But make no mistake – Oprah is behind such efforts 100 percent. The show, and the reporting by Lisa Ling, was intended to grab at the heartstrings of viewers, and an attempt to gain ratings. I’m sure it succeeded at both.
Greg Henderson, Drovers editor:
Oprah’s influence on American life is vast, and animal welfare issues will be no different. She believes consumers will vote on their animal care preferences at the grocery store. But when she makes such comments she ignores the fact that her vast wealth allows her to eat whatever she wishes – organic, free-range, etc. But for many Americans those choices have already been made as our economy dips further into recession.
Unfortunately, our battle over animal welfare is not winnable. We can only hope to contain the radical ideas and the implementation of unworkable laws. Our best tactics are to eliminate any form of animal abuse, properly train employees, and adhere to strict animal care guidelines.
6 Comments on “Oprah Show Will Motivate You”
I wrote to this forum several times as did our daughter who is a partner in our farm. It takes a certain amount of courage as the animal rights people are quick with personal attacks.
I wrote to this forum several times as did our daughter who is a partner in our farm. It takes a certain amount of courage as the animal rights people are quick with personal attacks.
I wrote to this forum several times as did our daughter who is a partner in our farm. It takes a certain amount of courage as the animal rights people are quick with personal attacks.
You’re right threecollie, it does take a lot of courage to speak up when you know someone in your audience might not agree with you. I hope the possibility of that happening doesn’t hold you back from telling your story, as with anything, dealing with difficult people becomes easier with practice. Be honest and up-front, and I’m sure everyone will be excited to hear what you have to say! Thank you for taking the chance and standing up for the dairy industry – I commend you!
You’re right threecollie, it does take a lot of courage to speak up when you know someone in your audience might not agree with you. I hope the possibility of that happening doesn’t hold you back from telling your story, as with anything, dealing with difficult people becomes easier with practice. Be honest and up-front, and I’m sure everyone will be excited to hear what you have to say! Thank you for taking the chance and standing up for the dairy industry – I commend you!
You’re right threecollie, it does take a lot of courage to speak up when you know someone in your audience might not agree with you. I hope the possibility of that happening doesn’t hold you back from telling your story, as with anything, dealing with difficult people becomes easier with practice. Be honest and up-front, and I’m sure everyone will be excited to hear what you have to say! Thank you for taking the chance and standing up for the dairy industry – I commend you!