By responding so vigorously and brilliantly to the points raised by other philosophers, he fends off arguments that, by providing respectable cover, could serve to abet animal abuse in its myriad forms.

Best,
Peter Keller
Northwest Animal Rights Network

Your Friend,
Harold Brown

We were so overwhelmed by the love you sent to both of us. If ever there has been an occasion when words fail us, this is it. We plan to collect your messages in a way that befits their beauty and to treasure them for the rest of our lives. Thank you, one and all.

With all good wishes to all of you.

— Nancy and Tom

Congratulations for this well-deserved recognition, and belated thanks for all you have done towards awakening humankind from its long slumber when it comes to thinking about animals. Ever since discovering an essay titled “The Moral Basis for Vegetarianism” as a graduate student at the Carleton University library (Ottawa) in 1985, my work for animals has been driven and inspired by the absolute moral imperative that undelies the cause we share. I look forward to the next time our paths cross (it’s already been far too long since last time!).

With love and deep respect,
Jonathan Balcombe

Let me add my voice to the chorus by thanking you and Mom. You have taught me many, many things throughout the years – not the least of which is compassion for all living animals and what it means to a live a life with the courage of one’s conviction. I cannot think of anyone I respect more than you and I am truly blessed to have you as my Dad.

With limitless love and heartfelt congratulations on this special occasion, Karen

Congratulations!
How fitting to celebrate 35 years of your work that has changed so many minds and hearts to cultivate a relationship with animals based on respect, compassion and justice.
You have inspired and renewed the commitment of many advocates in their own work on behalf of animals.
Truly the world is a better place because of the two of you.

More than a score of years has passed since I had the honor of working with you on
The Declaration of the Rights of Animals
that was presented on the steps of the Capitol in 1990.
This document has helped to define, inspire and unify our movement.
Thank you.

I am sure that there are numerous people who will write with greater eloquence, but my simple note is truly heartfelt. The most apropos words for me at the moment are inspired from Stephen Schwarz’s musical “Wicked”:

“I’ve heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason,
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led to those who help us most to grow if we let them and we help them in return…
But I know I’m who I am today because I knew you…
So much of me is made of what I learned from you
You’ll be with me like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end I know you have re-written mine by being my friend…
Who can say if I’ve been changed for the better? I do believe I have been
And because I knew you…I have been changed for good!”

And if I could be with you today I would raise a glass in honor of you both, Nancy and Tom:
May love and laughter light your days,
And warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
Wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
With joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons
Bring the best to you and yours!

Fondly,
Peggy Cunniff
National Anti-Vivisection Society

I became vegetarian in 1993 because I was concerned about damage to the environment from the overfishing of oceans and deforestation for grazing land. Animal Rights were, admittedly, not part of my reasoning for this life decision.

Fast forward to 1997, the year I was introduced to a beautiful, incredibly intelligent law student. After enjoying a couple of meals together, we realized that the neither one of us had eaten any animal products on our dates. In other words, we both realized that the other was vegetarian. This realization opened up a whole new world to our relationship. She started to expose me to the basics of moral philosophy and specifically to Animal Rights. After introducing me to her parents, she dragged me to my first AR conference (certainly a standard chain of events in every American courtship!). In the end, by her influence, the rationale for my lifestyle and dietary choices expanded to a more complete state. She had profoundly changed my life.

I married that incredible woman, who just happens to be your daughter. Thank you for Karen, and for welcoming me into your family nearly eleven years ago. Your work will outlive us all, not just through your writings, but through your grandchildren, who will pass it on to their children’s children.

Love,

Jon