The Liquid Muse

Protect California's Farm Animals from Cruelty by Voting YES on Prop 2

Forgive me for getting political for a moment but humane treatment of animals is a cause dear to my heart. I believe it is our collective moral duty to stand up for those who are being abused and can't speak for themselves - be they animals, homeless people or children. Those without a "voice" in our society need our help.

I admit that I'm a hypocrite because I eat meat - but I care very much about animals. I don't think I could kill one myself to make a filet mignon, BBQ ribs, spicy sausage, lamb kebab or any other meat dish I enjoy. However, I do not want animals to suffer physical and mental distress because they are being raised for food purposes.

If you live in California, please vote YES on Proposition 2, The Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act to help give farm animals a more humane existence. Here is more information about it:

FACT: Prop 2 will eliminate the worst cruelties inflicted on animals living on factory farms. It will end the practice of cramming animals into cages so small the animals can’t even turn around or extend their limbs.

FACT: Prop 2 will make our food safer to eat. A recent study found that battery-cage operations were up to 20 times more likely to be contaminated with Salmonella than cage-free facilities. Prop 2 will protect all Californians -- and especially infants and small children -- against higher risks of Salmonella.

FACT: Prop 2 will cost less than a penny per egg to implement. Published research and analysis by a California-based poultry economist show that it costs producers less than one penny per egg to stop confining laying hens in battery cages.

FACT: Prop 2 will give farmers more than 6 years to adjust to more humane and sustainable practices. That's a more than reasonable phase-in provision. In fact, more than 100 California family farmers are endorsing Proposition 2.

For all these reasons, vote YES! on Prop 2 tomorrow. For more detailed information about Prop 2, including complete fact sheets on animal cruelty, food safety, and other issues related to Prop 2, visit: YESonProp2.com