One thing I've learned in Ag Leadership is there is always two sides to a coin, and always two distinct sides to any issue. One issue in particular that our class has discussed in much detail was California's Proposition 2, the 'Standards for Confining Farm Animals' initiative that was sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
We were able to meet with David Martosko, Director of Research of the Center for Consumer Freedom. The Center for Consumer Freedom (www.consumerfreedom.com) is a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting personal responsibility and protecting consumer choices. This was an interesting talk regarding radical environmental groups such as the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and the HSUS and their ultimate goal of abolishing animal agriculture in the United States.
We also were able to meet with Paul Shapiro of the HSUS. His official job title is the Senior Director of the Factory Farming Campaign. Mr. Shapiro talked about the background of Prop 2, his organization and his background. He has worked as a farm animal cruelty investigator and has published articles on animal welfare. We had a great discussion regarding Prop 2 and it's implications to California agriculture. As a person who derives their income primarily from animal agriculture, I was pretty skeptical of Mr. Shapiro's motives. After hearing him and asking him some pointed questions, I still am skeptical.
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