IDA was a proud sponsor of the National Animal Rights Conference, which took place in the Washington D.C. area last weekend. The Conference, organized by Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM), was a powerful forum for animal advocates to network, share campaign strategies, and build community. Activists left with a sense of belonging to a much larger tribe, founded on compassion for all sentient beings. Public outcry against Cecil the lion’s tragic death was the hottest topic of conversation at the conference, causing conference attendees to marvel at how his cruel death is raising animal rights issues into the limelight worldwide.

On the home front, IDA President Dr. Marilyn Kroplick and Council of Sustainable Activism instructors Dr. Paul C. Gorski and Dallas Rising presented a panel on “Healing the Movement from Within” to confront burnout in our community and provide resources to be a lifelong activist. Sustainable Activism Campaign Director Lisa Levinson presented on “Helping People Help Animals” via our Animal Activist Helpline, video tips, workshops, webinars, online gatherings, monthly Meetups, and retreats.

Also at the conference, we introduced our new Whales, Elephants, Life & Liberty (WELL) campaign to promote wellbeing for individuals and populations of all species. WELL intends to protect iconic megafauna, like whales and elephants, by demonstrating how captivity and conservation collide. Campaign goals include sanctuary placement for solitary animals, shifting from treating animals as resources to treating them with respect, and justice for all animals.

Director of Hope Animal Sanctuary, Doll Stanley, shared her expertise on cruelty investigations and rescue. She plans to take her efforts to the next level by introducing legislative actions and educational programs. This will improve the quality of life for animals in Mississippi, an area fraught with animal abuse.

The Conference was a hugely inspiring event, and we hope you’ll join us next year!