Who is Humane PA?

Blog by Humane PA President, Elissa Katz 

Who is Humane PA?  In a word – YOU!  Regardless of age, race, socio-economic background, religion, political allegiance, or any of the other traits we use to define and distinguish ourselves, there is a core commonality binding us all – our heartfelt belief that animals deserve to be treated humanely.  Regardless of our differences, we are united in the conviction that there is no place for cruelty to animals in our state.  Our shared belief and conviction are the pillars of Humane PA PAC, and each one of us is critical to ensuring that Pennsylvania is increasingly humane.

Humane PA is now over 31,000 Pennsylvania voters strong – and that is just on social media.  Those numbers, as impressive as they are, omit the scores of individuals who are not on Facebook , Twitter or other social media, yet are working with us to improve the lives of animals through public policy.  In fact, we are hard pressed to think of anyone – other than a small number of callous extremists – who does not believe that animals should be treated humanely and that cruelty is intolerable.  It is up to each one of us to increase the strength and political power of the animal vote by enlisting our friends, neighbors, family, co-workers, animal rescue groups and virtually everyone we encounter – to join with us under the umbrella of Humane PA and to turn Humane PA into THE political powerhouse in our state.

I know that there are a variety of non-animal related issues of concern to all of us, and that we may stand on opposing sides – but I also know that when it is a matter concerning animals, we put aside our differences to stand strong against cruelty.  And, regardless where a candidate stands on various other issues, there is one thing that we should all expect – a commitment to the humane treatment of animals.  A candidate who does not believe in the humane treatment of animals does not belong in office, it’s as simple as that.

Who is Humane PA?  We all are!  In preparation for the fall election and the resumption of the legislative session, let’s work to increase our formal numbers by inviting others to our Facebook page, to sign up for our e-newsletter, and to contact their legislators seeking support of pending humane bills.  And, as campaign season ramps up, let us all remind the candidates in our respective districts that we expect them to join with us and to work hard and pass laws to create a more humane PA.

Humane PA PAC’s Mission Statement

Elissa B. Katz is the President of Humane PA and a partner in the law firm of Meranze, Katz, Gaudioso & Newlin, P.C. in Philadelphia. She is a regular volunteer with the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), assisting with cat care and adoption applications at an adoption site.  She is also a board member of The Humane League and Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.