Marching Forward: Inspiring Messages of Compassion by Women

A note from Erica Meier, Executive Director of Compassion Over Killing: Though they are so often working behind the scenes rather than in the public eye, there are thousands of women standing up and speaking out on behalf of suffering animals each and every day. As we reflect upon this Women’s History Month, I would like to send thanks to the many compassionate women Marching toward a kinder world for all. You bring unwavering strength, courage and kindness to the animal movement. Thank you for all you do, and know that we at Compassion Over Killing are standing with you!

In honor of women everywhere who have forged — and who continue to forge — paths of justice and equality for all animals, we’re highlighting some of our favorite inspirational words from vegan women. We hope these messages of compassion empower you to raise YOUR voice for animals.

“Vegan food is soul food in its truest form. Soul food means ‘to feed the soul.’ And, to me, your soul is your intent. If your intent is pure, you are pure.” ― Erykah Badu

“Feminized protein is taken from living female animals, whose reproductive capacity is manipulated for human needs…Even though the animals are alive, dairy products and eggs are not victimless foods.” – Carol J. Adams 

“Closing our eyes doesn’t make violence disappear; it only closes our minds and hearts and enables the violence to continue.” ― Colleen Patrick-Goudreau

“I prefer to eat mostly raw or ‘living’ foods. The benefits for me are increased energy, a slowing of the aging process, and I have none of the diseases like hypertension, heart disease and diabetes that many people my age seem to get.” ― Coretta Scott King

“Once people spend time with farm animals in a loving way – a pig or cow or a little chicken or a turkey – they might find they relate with them the same way they relate with dogs and cats. People don’t really think of them that way because they’re on the plate. Why should they be food when other animals are pets? I would never eat my doggies.”  ― Alicia Silverstone

“Most people don’t think about the fact they’re eating animals. When they’re eating a steak or eating chicken, most people don’t think about the tremendous suffering that those animals endure simply to become food products to be consumed by human beings.” ― Dr. Angela Davis

“I don’t want to torture anything. It’s about trying to live a life where I’m not contributing to the cruelty in the world. While I am on this planet, I want everyone I meet to know that I am grateful they are here.”  ― Jessica Chastain

“”We all love animals. Why do we call some ‘pets’ and others ‘dinner?'” ― K.D. Lang

“Liberate your mind and your mouth will follow.” – Tracye McQuirter

Have any other favorite quotes about veganism to share? Post them in the Facebook comments! And don’t forget: your own words have the power to make change for both humans, nonhumans and the world we share!