Ingrid Newkirk is an influential figure in the animal rights movement. As the co-founder and president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), she has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and well-being of animals. Throughout her career, Newkirk has shared powerful quotes that inspire and challenge us to think differently about our relationship with animals. In this article, we have compiled some of the most thought-provoking and impactful Ingrid Newkirk quotes.
Read these Ingrid Newkirk quotes
“When it comes to feelings, a rat is a pig is a dog is a boy. There is no rational basis for saying that a human being has special rights. A rat is a pig is a dog is a boy. They’re all mammals.”
“The question is not, ‘Can they reason?’ nor, ‘Can they talk?’ but rather, ‘Can they suffer?'”
“Animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way.”
“We are taught the golden rule as young children, and all major religions teach principles of nonviolence and kindness. So why do we choose to ignore those teachings when it comes to other animals?”
“When it comes to pain, love, joy, loneliness, and fear, a rat is a pig is a dog is a boy. Each one values his or her life and fights the knife.”
“We need, in a special way, to work twice as hard to help people understand that the animals are fellow creatures, that we must protect them and love them as we love ourselves.”
“We cannot have peace among men whose hearts find delight in killing any living creature.”
“Animals are not property or ‘things’ but rather living organisms, subjects of a life, who are worthy of our compassion, respect, friendship, and support.”
“The time is always right to do what is right.”
“The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it.”
“When it comes to animals, all people must be activists. Every single one of us has the power to create change.”
“We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat the animals. Animals suffer as much as we do. True humanity does not allow us to impose such sufferings on them. It is our duty to make the whole world recognize it. Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace.”
“The only difference between a dog, cat, cow, dolphin, or lobster is perception. They are all unique individuals with the ability to feel pain, experience joy, and form relationships. It is our responsibility to protect and respect them.”
“Change happens when people decide they are no longer willing to tolerate injustice. We must be the voice for those who cannot speak.”
“Animal rights are not a gift we give to animals; they are a birthright we must honor.”
“The greatest ethical test that we’re ever going to face is the treatment of those who are at our mercy.”
“Animals are not ours to use for food, clothing, experimentation, or any other purpose. They are individuals with their own desires, needs, and interests.”
“The greatest danger to our future is apathy. We must never lose our passion and determination to create a world where all beings can live free from suffering and exploitation.”
“Compassion for animals is intimately associated with goodness of character, and it may be confidently asserted that he who is cruel to animals cannot be a good man.”
“Every time we choose kindness over cruelty, we are making a positive impact on the world. Our actions matter, and they have the power to change lives.”
These Ingrid Newkirk quotes serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy towards all living beings. They challenge us to rethink our treatment of animals and inspire us to become advocates for their well-being. Let us strive to create a world where animals are respected, protected, and given the rights they deserve.
