Just in time for the lead up to the Cattle Industry Summer Conference we have the introduction of Cows Unite by the folks from Sustainable Table. Thanks to AdRants for the story.
Cows Have the Right to Be Cows. Cows Have the Right to Graze. Cows Have the Right to Clean Air. Cows Have the Right to Dignity and Joy. These are just a few of the rights cows nationwide are presenting as part of their agreed-upon “Bovine Bill of Rights”—a historic document found at www.cowsunite.org that is the centerpiece of “Cows Unite,” a movement unveiling afoot in which a strong affiliation of cows in pastures coast-to-coast have created to help humans understand the importance of organic dairy, decent treatment for cows and the critical role of family farmers.
Officially launching May 31, www.cowsunite.org will serve as the hub for all Cows Unite materials, gatherings, calls to action and activities. Currently, visitors can download the Bovine Bill of Rights, view two short films capturing the resistance in action and learn how they can become more involved. Cows Unite has already received support from a number of leaders in the sustainable food movement, including Organic Valley, Beyond Pesticides, Bioneers, Farm Aid, and Ecotrust.
You can find the full Cows Bill of Right (according to them) by clicking on:
The Bovine Bill of Rights
People, rise up and take back your milk! We are the bovine Sisters of Cows Unite. We’re ordinary cows, except we’ve got a few serious beefs:
Cows have the right to be cows.
Cows are not machines—we are equals in the interdependent circle of life. All our rights begin with this right.
Cows have the right to graze.
Turn us loose to graze in pastures free of synthetic pesticides and herbicides. We will take only what we need and we will refresh the soil. You will be happier for it, too. Our milk will be delicious and delightful. Promise.
Cows have the right to just say no to drugs.
The days of experimentation are over. Stop pushing the synthetic hormones and antibiotics! Organic is the right way for Sisters everywhere.
Cows have the right to dignity and joy.
When we are free to move about outdoors, it’s our best opportunity for dignity, health and joy—and a chance at joy should be the right of all living things. Even dogs.
Cows have the right to decent help.
Sure, us cows are the all-stars, but the time has come to say thanks to the little guys – the family farmers. We can’t do this alone. Fair pay for an honest day’s nurturing and care. It’s all we ask. Viva la Family Farm!
Cows have the right to clean air.
Nothing makes us breath easier than local customers. When you choose milk from pastures close by, you reduce trucking. It’s pretty nifty. Less air pollution, less fuel used, and support for your neighboring Farmers, all from one little milk choice.