Humans share this planet with millions of other species, and we all have inherent worth. When we consider the individuals around us—whether they’re a lonely elderly neighbor or a frightened chicken on a transport truck heading to slaughter—we can recognize that everyone feels love, grief, joy, pain, fear, and hope.
Animals have unique personalities, amazing abilities, and a remarkable capacity for emotions.
We may never see eye to eye with everyone, but we can look into each other’s eyes and understand that we’re all animals, that each one of us deserves respect and kindness, that everyone should live free from needless pain and suffering, and that
every animal is someone.
Consider the following:
Elephants and chimpanzees mourn and shed tears if a member of their family dies.
Fish “sing” underwater and like physical contact with other fish, often gently rubbing against one another—similar to how a cat weaves in and out of your legs.
Mother cows walk for miles in search of their stolen babies.
Rats willingly put themselves in harm’s way to save others.
Geese fall in love and are loyal to their partner for life, even when facing danger.
Many orcas in the ocean stay with their families for life.
In 2024, PETA will continue building a more respectful world for all animals.
With tensions often running high, hopelessness abounding, and conflicts raging around the globe, PETA is empowering humans to recognize the similarities in everyone around them instead of focusing on their differences. Our “Every Animal Is Someone” slogan will be incorporated into our work for animals.
For animals who are cut open on laboratory tables, prodded onto the kill floor in slaughterhouses, skinned for leather, or held in cramped tanks in marine parks, our compassion and conviction are critical.
We all have the power to help make the world a kinder place and to choose nonviolence every single day with every decision we make.
We’ve also created a free, downloadable empathy kit that offers a step-by-step guide for understanding others’ perspectives and experiences.
Share one with a relative who eats meat and cheese, a neighbor who chains their dog outside, a coworker who carries a crocodile-skin bag or wears wool or feathers, or anyone else who could benefit from a lesson in kindness.
Download an “Every Animal Is Someone” Empathy Kit Now:
By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.
Mouse ©️iStock.com/Caymiac | Cow ©️iStock.com/Timothy Vining | Fish ©️iStock.com/alptraum | Macaque ©️iStock.com/4FR