I just  watched a screening of Leonardo DiCaprio's new documentary on global warming, scheduled to be released in August. "The 11th Hour interviewed 71 people to create a narrative about the state of the world and how human beings impact our only home, planet earth." The movie was very well done [imho] and takes us on an emotional roller-coaster ride through the changes this planet is experiencing without making us feel like we're helpless victims. I left the movie feeling more empowered than when I walked in. The film presents many solutions to the issues we're facing with the caveat that it's "you" who's responsible.

Three thumbs up!

Where will you be on July 28th?
 
We have some exciting news for you! The Humane Society is hosting its 3rd national conference in Washington, DC on July 28th-30th. This year’s conference will focus on the plight of farm animals and the impact of industrial animal agribusiness! Zaadz is working in partnership to help spread the word about this event!
 
Did you know?

That approximately 10 billion land animals are slaughtered by the meat, egg, and dairy industries in the United States annually, which is approximately 1 million animals every single hour (nearly all of whom are chickens)!
 
Why the focus on farm animals?

Statistically, farm animals comprise 98% of all animals in the country with whom we interact. The numbers of animals killed by trappers and hunters; in classrooms, research laboratories, and animal shelters; and on fur farms; and those animals raised as companions or used for entertainment by circuses and zoos, collectively make up only 2% of the animals in some established relationship with humans in the United States. Which, is not to say that those abuses aren’t important, but that the plight of farm animals is often underestimated and their quality of life urgently needs our attention.
 
There will be two full days of incredible workshops and lectures featuring experts & activists, covering a wide range of topics, such as:

Being a Joyful Vegan in a Non-Vegan World,
Factory Farming, Global Warming, and the Environment
State Legislation: How to Get a Bill Passed
Whole Foods Market: The Journey Towards Transparency, Accountability and Responsibility with Farm Animal Welfare
Advances for Farm Animals: How and Why We're Winning

There will also be a full day of lobbying on Capitol Hill to really take action and use the knowledge from the conference to make positive political change. 
 
It is sure to be a life-changing experience that will build your compassion and understanding and give you the opportunity to make a difference. So come join us if you can, whether you’re a seasoned activist or simply interested in learning more about what it means to be vegan or the realities of agribusiness! It’s going to be an amazing weekend!

When and where:

July 28-30
1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Day 1: keynote sessions
Day 2: four tracks
Day 3: Lobby Day on Capitol Hill

For registration information, click here