Stop violence and got nonviolence? posters

Joanne and I have designed a new poster that speaks more broadly to veganism, nonviolence and its relationship to other forms of oppression. One of the criticisms of the animal welfare movement is its too frequent focus on bourgeois politics and, just as often, it's reactionary take on sexism and racism. I certainly agree with that, and as an abolitionist and a vegan, I think all forms of irrational prejudice are a form of violence. I have also included an older poster that I did for Gary L. Francione, whose pioneering work has provided the basis for mine.

So, Joanne and I put together a poster that we hope speaks to some of those issues. The design is for US Legal sized paper, but if there is demand, we may produce for international paper sizes. A few people have asked about translations of our materials. Since we're in Canada, eh, we typically do French translations but it's Quebec French. We will translate into any language assuming that a translation can be provided.

I also want to thank people for the even more overwhelmingly positive response to our previous poster. Literally, a couple of dozen people commented positively and I'm glad so many of you like the work and are willing to help get the message out with retweets, Facebook shares, and in person. It's important to talk to as many people as we can about veganism and not all of us are equally experienced with doing so. Never be afraid to agree with other advocates when it is right to do so or to speak out with your own ideas when you don't agree.

Today, the world is organized around violence and nonviolence proposes the largest social transformation in human history. Oppressions are held in place by violent means. We must tell our opponents clearly and unequivocally that we will fight on our terms. We must tell them that we are not afraid. We must tell them that we will not accept violence from them. We must make it clear that public discussion and change is the only acceptable way that they can meet our demands for the unequivocal, unconditional and immediate freedom of other animals (human and non).

We do not need corporations, bureaucracies and figureheads who want to line their pockets with donations while paying their presidents and CEOs six figure salaries. We must fight for all and for each individual with veganism and solidarity work through anti-oppression, adoption, shelter or sanctuary work. Love is not a single issue; it is all issues addressed with the single most powerful word in any language. Don't let anyone tell you different, don't let yourself or another advocate be bullied, and don't let your voices be silenced.

If you are not vegan, you should go vegan today. If you are not an abolitionist, you can learn more about the approach at www.abolitionistapproach.com or by reading my previous articles.