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Christmas may be just around the corner, but agriculture advocacy never takes a holiday. This just in: Forever 21, a popular clothing store for teens and 20-somethings, is now supporting the Humane Society of the U.S. (HSUS), the richest anti-animal agriculture organization in America. This is a call-to-action. I hope you will join me in writing to the company and letting them know how you feel.
This sign was discovered in New York by Dustin Homan, an agriculture leadership student at The Ohio State University. The photo was then posted on Facebook by his fellow classmate and Simmental breeder, Emily Brinkman. The sign reads, “With your purchase of this T-shirt, Forever 21 will make a $1.00 donation to HSUS. We and all our furry friends thank you!”
While I don’t think a boycott of the company is necessary, I do believe it’s critically important to educate this clothing store about the true agenda of HSUS, which is, of course, to abolish animal agriculture and eliminate consumers’ choice to put meat, dairy and eggs on the dinner table. As Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman said, “HSUS is an organization you cannot trust and I do not trust.” Unfortunately, many are duped into donating to this company because they believe they are funding local animal shelters.
Please, send your comments to Forever 21’s Facebook page, leave your thoughts on their Web site or call customer service at 888-494-3837.
Here is what I wrote to the company: “I have always been a fan of Forever 21 and the fun, trendy clothes you offer for young people. However, as a cowgirl from South Dakota, I’m disappointed in your support of the Humane Society of the United States. Did you know that less than one-half of 1% of their $100-million annual budget actually goes to funding animal shelters? That equates to less than $450,000! Please, consider donating directly to local animal shelters, where our furry friends will have access to your generous gifts. Merry Christmas to everyone at Forever 21.”
Remember to keep your comments positive and sincere. Provide the facts and share a little bit about your personal story. Represent all of us farmers and ranchers in a good light, and hopefully we can all help to educate this company about HSUS. Be sure to post your comments on the blog, as well, to assist others in composing theirs. Thanks in advance for your help on this.
You know, The HSUS is not the enemy here. And furthermore, the company/sign did not say that Forever 21 was donating to local shelters as you seem to be alleging.It states that it will donate $1 dollar per sale of a t-shirt to The Humane Society. And speaking of getting it wrong,
the HSUS is “anti-animal agriculture”?
Come on, Really? What are you even talking about? The HSUS stands FOR animals, ALL ANIMALS! Most especially for the animals MOST in need of defending. For example, the farm animals which are not just mistreated, but straight up abused and violated! The money is going to where it is needed, and how dare you get down on the organization that is doing its part to put an end to animal abuse!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hello!!! 🙂
I was interested in your thoughts about supporters of HSUS. Animal cruelty and industrial farming are closely associated but getting you out of business is not on the HSUS’ agenda.
American farms have been doing really bad economically but it isn’t the animal society to blame. It’s the mass production farms that are putting the traditional farms out of business.
It is my wish that traditional farmers find a way to overcome these heinous industrial farms without giving in to animal cruelty. The animals should not be confined to small cages, injected with hormones or fed pesticide filled foods. As a future sustainable agriculture worker it’s exciting to hear about clean farming practices and happy animals. I don’t oppose the eating of meat or animal bi-products but what I do (and many other compassionate individuals) look down upon is animal cruelty.
As a country we should be working towards making a difference for the earth and it’s creatures. Organic, sustainable and cruelty-free farms are highly appreciated! I support my local farms and get organic vegetables in their seasonal program and farmers markets. My family also purchases local organic milk and we get to visit the very same cows that provide these. 🙂
I hope I can be of help in the agricultural field someday! 🙂
Respectfully,
Rebekah