A Message From Ingrid Newkirk

I had a blast on my 75th birthday. I’ll clue you in on what I did in a sec – but first, thank you to everyone who sent well-wishes and wonderful donations for the animals at Animal Rahat’s sanctuaries, including Maria Reviello, who ran 70.5 miles (are you bionic, Maria?!) to raise funds. What a huge boost!

I was in Chicago on my birthday, where we distributed 300 fabulous Field Roast vegan hot dogs with all the fixings. We set up on a crowded street filled with shops, and the giveaway lasted only minutes as people ran to get our hot dogs, even coming out of stores to grab one! I suggest you host a hot dog giveaway in your neighborhood, too. It’s so simple: Just use a heating tray and supply some condiments. You could even add vegan chili – people love that. And offer PETA’s free vegan starter kits with every dog.

I drove our “pig transport truck” around Chicago, and when people heard the squeals, they stopped and gawked. We parked it outside The Wiener’s Circle restaurant, compelling customers to think long and hard about how their food choices harm or help animals.

Here’s another suggestion: If someone asks what you’d like for your birthday (or any occasion), say, “I’d like you to go vegan for two weeks, please.” After all, they asked! This has worked time and again, with some people becoming lifetime vegans.

Happy activism to you!