As we close the chapter on 2021, I want to take this opportunity to highlight our work in the animal rights movement and to share the accomplishments FARM has made since I came on board as Executive Director just over a year ago. 

The most surprising moment was the overwhelming response to MeatOut 2021 that fetched hundreds of headlines from around the world after the governor of Colorado proclaimed March 20th “MeatOut Day.” Ranchers across the west had a cow when they learned of Governor Polis’ action, which actually helped highlight the effectiveness of the program. Events like MeatOut generate interest in and enthusiasm for animal rights, and we couldn’t accomplish this important work without your support. 

MeatOut 2021 continued onto the streets of Washington DC with demonstrations and vegan food sampling during the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Under the guidance of FARM’s Director of Special Projects, Lisa DeCrescente, we were able to host a number of unique events this year, including a self-care webinar, an International Dog Day photo event, a vegan design event, a three-part series on Humane Education and a webinar on vegan investing with Beyond Investing. 

Events like these are only possible with your support. 

World Day for Farmed Animals (WDFA) received overwhelming support, with over 20 animal rights organizations coming on board to acknowledge the 38th anniversary of this most important event. Each October 2nd since 1983, WDFA has inspired people worldwide to take animals off their plates and consider compassionate food choices relative to farmed animals.

As someone who knows about FARM, you’re also aware that animals are sentient beings who have every right to live on this planet as humans do. FARM’s programming serves to bring this message to the masses. Together we can make a difference for the animals. 

Although the Animal Rights National Conference was again postponed, we’re already seeing signs of an in-person event in 2022 and are hopeful there will be a return to normalcy by the end of the summer that will allow for all of us to get together again. 

We hosted our popular Compassionate Holidays campaigns, providing the tools needed to navigate the holidays — compassionately. 

Earlier this year we were also able to establish FARM Puerto Rico. In June 2021, FARM expanded its programs into Puerto Rico with the goal of educating more people about the plight of farmed animals and expanding awareness on the island about the benefits of a vegan diet. FARM PR produces and disseminates Spanish-language videos and written content, hosts events, and supports local vegan businesses, activists, and organizations.