Advocate

Everyone knows that there can be no greater love than between a person and their animal companions. Why not afford that same love and compassion to all other living beings we share the planet with? (I regularly rescue some amazing spiders and snails!). The following are some of the animal and environmental groups I support which take care of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. I often play Golden Slumbers by the Beatles, which I imagine as a lullaby to caged and exploited animals everywhere (I think Paul would approve!).

Rainforest Action Network preserves forests, protects the climate and upholds human rights by challenging corporate power and systemic injustice through frontline partnerships and strategic campaigns. RAN works toward a world where the rights and dignity of all communities are respected and where healthy forests, a stable climate and wild biodiversity are protected and celebrated.

The Center for Biological Diversity believes that the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature — to the existence in our world of a vast diversity of wild animals and plants. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, they work to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. They do so through science, law and creative media, with a focus on protecting the lands, waters and climate that species need to survive.

Pasado’s Safe Haven, in addition to investigating animal cruelty crimes and providing sanctuary and rehabilitation to animals who have suffered from abuse and neglect, they also advocate for better laws to protect animals and work to educate the public about how they can help end animal suffering. Through their uniquely comprehensive programs, they are able to help thousands of animals every year and spread a message of compassion to countless people.

Animal Defenders International (ADI) works to end the suffering of animals in captivity and protect wild animals and their environments. For over 20 years, they have rescued hundreds of animals from circuses all over the world, and relocated them to sanctuaries. We hope that by knowing these animals as individuals, with personalities, feelings, and a desire for life, the public at large will see other beings who share our planet as deserving of respect and the right to life.

Elephants Without Borders is a charitable organization dedicated to conserving wildlife and natural resources; through innovative research, and information sharing with all people, they strive to encourage mankind to live in harmony with wildlife and the natural world.

Cool Earth knows indigenous peoples and local communities have always protected the rainforest, nurtured it, and kept it healthy for thousands and thousands of years simply by living there. Backing the people who live in the rainforest and recognising and respecting their rights is essential in fighting the climate crisis. Their climate knowledge and rich history of living in rainforests ensure the best carbon sinks on earth can stay that way. This climate action increases when backed with your support; creating a people-first, earth-cooling revolution to be reckoned with.

Also, consider joining the Plant Based Treaty to put food systems at the forefront of combating the climate and ocean crisis!

…and Seattle is home to many plant based restaurants, including many vegan friendly (VF) ones, here are some of my favorites, enjoy!

Vital Creations Vegan Bistro in Fremont

Maize & Barley (VF) in Edmonds

Sushi Samurai in Queen Anne

Wayward Vegan Cafe in Ravenna

Cafe Flora in Madison Valley

45th Vegetarian Thai in Wallingford

Harvest Beat also in Wallingford

Oak (VF) in North Beacon Hill

Luna Park Cafe (VF) in West Seattle

Razzis Pizzeria (VF) in Greenwood