As an artist and naturalist, I love what I do; but the reason I have done what I have with my business is a mission. A mission of awareness to give a voice to those living things that have none; and the hope some will hear it. In today’s world I know it is really hard to think beyond your own issues, and we all have a plate full- but there are some out there that need our attention more than our own. Our wild horses are one of those issues.
Eastern Wild Horse- Assateague Nat'l Seashore Maryland
In 1971, Congress passed the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act, granting federal protection to America’s wild horses and burros as “living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West”. America’s wild horse population has dwindled to fewer than 33,000 when in the 1800’s it was over 2 million. There are now more wild horses in government holding pens than remain in the wild, with many of the remaining herds managed at population levels that do not guarantee their long-term survival. And still, the round-ups continue. * They are penned under the control of the Bureau of Land Management until sold and sent to slaughter.
We are taking one of our last, few, national treasures to sell the meat to foreign countries, and all for money. I fear history repeating what happened to our magnificent buffalo. I don’t understand this obsession to control Nature. To me, capitalism is at its worse when it involves unsuspecting animals as they cannot speak up and have a say for themselves. What are they thinking? What would they say to us?
On May 30 the House Appropriations Committee approved an amendment that prevents horse slaughter in the U.S. It prohibits funding inspections for horse slaughter plants in the U.S.; and without them the meat cannot be sold. However, the bill comes to the full House for vote this week-most likely this Wednesday June 15; and there are many in and out of government trying to repeal this; those who see only money.
I do what I can, and so can you. It doesn’t have to be about money unless you want it to be. The American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign has a quick and easy, composed, letter that you can add your name to. They will also give you the name of your local representative and telephone number with a quick script to call in. Donations are of course always welcome but it is your voice that is really needed.
If you have a horse lover graduating or with a birthday or for no reason at all; I have also put up a flower arrangement in my Flowers For A Cause to benefit the AWHPC. If we all were to do whatever we can no matter how small; collectively a difference can be made in the world with those voices heard; and maybe things just might be righted.
Your thoughts? I welcome your comments and ideas and will forward them to the proper ears.
Click here to our benefit arrangement
*courtesy of the The American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign –AWHPC. Dedicated to preserving the American wild horse in viable free-roaming herds for generations to come, as part of our national heritage. Its grassroots efforts are supported by a coalition of over forty organizations.
