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Michael Vick now working with the HSUS
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Photo Credit: HSUS, 2009
Like many of you, I just received an email from Mr. Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). The email calmly states that HSUS recently finalized a deal with Michael Vick.
To quote, "the HSUS is going to provide an opportunity for [Vick] to get involved in some our anti-dogfighting outreach programs."
Pacelle goes on to say that, "Animal advocates might be skeptical."
I just want to say that I'm past the point of skeptical and fast approaching outraged. When rumors first floated around that PETA was in talks with Vicks to become their "spokesperson," I wasn't really all that surprised. However, I have been a longtime supporter of the HSUS and I feel that this is a huge step back for the animal rescue group that was once focused on ... (wait for it)... rescuing animals.
Pacelle makes the point of saying that he believes, "Vick can help HSUS reach young men in urban communities and tell his story about dogfighting being a dead end." He's right on that, at least. Maybe it will help.
Or perhaps the young men in the urban communities will be looking at the football player formerly known as Vick as he climbs from his limo fashionably dressed, probably wearing a Rolex, and (most importantly) free from prison, as he tells the young men why dogfighting is "a dead end road."
(Wink, Wink).
Call me crazy, but I can't imagine a child molestor being asked to talk to children about the "right" and "wrong" way to touch. I couldn't picture a rapist being asked to speak at a church youth group about why rape is wrong. I don't see the police asking a serial killer to offer seminars about why murder is "bad."
But, hey. That's me...
Personally, I'm redirecting any of my donations to other rescues who are actually rescuing. I'm past the point of disappointed with the HSUS.
In case you missed the correspondence from Pacelle, I've taken the liberty of reprinting part of the email below. I do encourage everyone to express themselves (whether you agree or disagree with the decision) at this quite obvious marketing stunt.
Remember. These are the same people who campaigned brutally AGAINST Vick being allowed to ever play football again. But then, I guess he doesn't need to if the HSUS is willing to foot the bill...
Dear Friend -- You may have seen the news that Michael Vick has been released from prison, and that The Humane Society of the United States is going to provide an opportunity for him to get involved in some of our anti-dogfighting outreach programs. Animal advocates might be skeptical, as I was, about whether a man who committed such horrible acts to dogs could do anything positive to help animals. But I want to give him the chance to be part of the solution, rather than part of the problem. If he is serious -- and we’ll soon find out -- then Vick can help HSUS reach young men in urban communities and tell his story about dogfighting being a dead end. Our on-the-street programs teach at-risk kids that pit bulls are friends, not fighters. I wanted to share with you my blog which I've just posted today, which elaborates on my thinking..
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