PETA to POTUS: Skip Archaic Turkey 'Pardon'
For Immediate Release:
November 20, 2012
Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382
Washington -- As President Barack Obama prepares to "pardon" two turkeys, PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk has fired off a letter to the president asking him to skip an event that makes light of the slaughter of millions of birds and is essentially an endorsement of the environmentally destructive factory farming industry. Newkirk also suggests that the First Family should set a "green" example by choosing a healthy, humane Tofurky as the centerpiece of their Thanksgiving celebration.
PETA points out that it's inaccurate to "pardon" turkeys since, unlike the cruel polluters who raise them, turkeys haven't committed any crime. PETA would like to see the turkeys—who typically live a year or less because of genetic manipulation that cripples them and induces heart attacks—be sent to an accredited sanctuary rather than to a tourist attraction. For more information visit PETA.org.
Newkirk's letter to President Obama follows.
November 20, 2012
The Honorable Barack Obama
President of the United States
The White House
Dear Mr. President:
People who are vegetarian for religious, health, environmental, or ethical reasons—with all due respect, I'm writing on behalf of them all as well as on behalf of PETA's millions of members and supporters, particularly young vegetarians who look to you to recognize their very existence.
You understand so well that African-Americans, women, and members of the LGBT community have been poorly served throughout history, and now I am asking you to consider other living beings who are ridiculed, belittled, and treated as if their sentience, feelings, and very natures count for nothing.
The White House turkey "pardon" is a sorely outdated event. It makes light of the mass slaughter of some 46 million gentle, intelligent birds and portrays the United States' president as being in some sort of business partnership with the turkey-killing industry. Turkeys do not need to be "pardoned"—they are not guilty of anything other than being born into a world of prejudice. They are innocents who should be respected for who they are: good mothers, smart birds, and interesting animals.
This year, we encourage you to forgo this event, which so many Americans find offensive, and choose a delicious, healthy Tofurky roast for your family's holiday table. Thank you for your consideration. We wish you, your family, and all Americans a happy, violence-free Thanksgiving.
Very truly yours,
Ingrid E. Newkirk
President