Honoring Juneteenth at Catskill Animal Sanctuary

At Catskill Animal Sanctuary, we believe in compassion and equality for all beings. Today, we acknowledge Juneteenth — a day that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. We want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of social justice in our movement and to acknowledge the significant contributions that Black individuals have made to the animal liberation movement. As animal advocates, it is crucial that we recognize the interconnected struggle for justice and liberation, and actively work to foster a community that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment for all. Juneteenth holds immense historical significance as it marks the day when the last enslaved people in the United States were finally informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, which was supposed to have freed all enslaved people. At Catskill Animal Sanctuary, we understand that the fight for animal rights is intricately connected to other social justice movements. Intersectionality acknowledges that different forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and speciesism, are interconnected and must be addressed collectively. By embracing intersectionality, we honor the lived experiences and struggles of marginalized communities, including the Black community, and work towards creating a more just and compassionate world for all beings. Throughout history, Black individuals have played a vital role in advocating for veganism, animal rights, and environmental justice. Activists like Angela Davis, Coretta Scott King, Aph Ko, and Bryant Terry have paved the way for a more inclusive vegan movement that recognizes the importance of cultural diversity and food justice. Their work highlights the connection between animal liberation, human rights, and the importance of sustainable, plant-based lifestyles. As we honor this day and hold space for the Black community, let us remember that the struggle for liberation extends to all beings, human and non-human alike. By recognizing and honoring the contributions of Black individuals to the vegan movement and embracing intersectionality, we strengthen our collective fight for justice, equality, and compassion.