**UPDATE: March 31, 2026 — This page was published long before allegations regarding Cesar Chavez came to light in March 2026. As an organization dedicated to justice and compassion for all beings, In Defense of Animals takes these reports very seriously. We echo the courage and clarity of youth animal rights advocate Genesis Butler — Chavez’s own great-grandniece — who addressed the allegations by stating, "I stand with those who have come forward." Like Genesis, we believe that "our movements are rooted in integrity, not silence," and we remain committed to nonviolence against all beings and supporting those who speak out against harm. For free, confidential support, contact our Animal Activist Support Line: www.idausa.org/activistsupport

Enjoy this summary of the self-care tips from our staff for Activist Appreciation Month, including new bonus tips! Looking for more? Call, text, or email us at (800) 705-0425, activistsupport@idausa.org.

As Operations Manager for In Defense of Animals Hope Animal Sanctuary, I am exposed to abuse and neglect of animals on a daily basis. The pain and suffering that my colleagues and I are exposed to takes a heavy toll. Abuse and neglect never take a day off, a vacation, or a holiday and so I rarely take time off either. My days are long since animals in need do not keep regular hours. For me, taking pictures of the animals we save so they are able to find loving guardians rejuvenates me and allows me to move forward. The support of friends in rescue is of paramount importance and helps me realize I am not alone in this fight.

According to the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General in Canada, compassion is a crime. Co-founder and co-organizer of Toronto Pig Save Anita Krajnc was charged with mischief under the Criminal Code for giving water to dehydrated pigs who were in a Van Boekel Hog Farms slaughterhouse transportation truck while stopped en route to Fearman’s Pork slaughterhouse on June 22. Anita’s trial is moving to the federal level. Her next court date is November 30th. Please help us protect the rights of fellow activists to advocate for animals.

Toronto Pig Save has organized weekly vigils for more than four years. For the last two years, hundreds of activists have regularly given water to thirsty, suffering pigs. The Save Movement follows a love-based approach to social change and includes forty groups internationally. These groups are influenced by the philosophy of author Leo Tolstoy, who influenced Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Cesar Chavez.

Tolstoy defined bearing witness as a duty: “When the suffering of another creature causes you to feel pain, do not submit to the initial desire to flee from the suffering one, but on the contrary, come closer, as close as you can to him [/her] who suffers, and try to help him[/her].” (Leo Tolstoy, A Calendar of Wisdom)

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