THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, April 28, 1996 TAG: 9604260008
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 32 lines
The hysteria over People for the Ethical Treatment of Animal's moving to Norfolk is puzzling.
PETA, like many other animal-rights groups, wants to protect the lives and basic rights of all sentient beings (human and nonhuman).
To correct a common misconception: People who protect animals do not hate humans.
People who fought for the rights of blacks did not hate whites.
Those who fought for women's rights did not hate men.
Those who fight for the rights of children don't hate adults.
People need to realize that these historical revolutionary movements are no different from today's animal-rights movement. We've extended basic fundamental rights to humans; now let's take the step and incorporate the rights of other beings.
ANNE BURKY
Virginia Beach, April 19, 1996
Editor's note: Ms. Burky is president of the Hampton Roads Vegetarian Society. by CNB