One view was that it was difficult enough to get people to care about big animals, like whales; no one was going to care about chickens. The other view was, “Go for it! Don’t wait! Do it now!” So she did!
[Originally posted on AnimalCultureMagazine ]
Karen Davis and Florence, © John H. Sheally, Courtesy of The
Virginian-Pilot
Karen Davis, PhD, founder and president of United Poultry Concerns,
shared the story of the organization’s beginnings and mission, her affinity
for all birds, succinct advice for animal activists, and what motivates her
in a wide-ranging, captivating interview.
Karen said she has had an affinity for birds since child- hood, but had no
personal experience with chickens or turkeys until adulthood. A combination
of circumstances led to the founding of UPC – her growing interest in farm
animals combined with personal time with her landlady’s chickens, and a
stint as a volunteer at Farm Sanctuary brought about a decision to form an
organization to focus on the plight of chickens and turkeys.
She formed it in 1990, after receiving conflicting recommendations about its
chances for success. One view was that it was difficult enough to get people
to care about big animals, like whales; no one was going to care about
chickens.
The other view was, “Go for it! Don’t wait! Do it now!” So she did!
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE
ARTICLE HERE (PDF)