Activist Profile: Casey
As we did in 2005, Vegan Outreach is profiling some of the top leafleters from our Adopt a College campaign. Here is Casey’s profile:
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I’m from the Albany, NY area, and recently moved to Houston, TX for career, weather (I like motorcycles) and activism opportunities.
What do you do for relaxation / entertainment?
Lifting weights, naps, rock concerts (metal & punk, to classic ’80s), aviation / airport management, flying airplanes (private pilot) and scuba diving.
How long have you been involved in animal rights and how did you get interested?
I’ve been Veg*n for 6 years. About 2 1/2 years ago, I found out about how to effectively release frustrations by effectively advocating for animals through grassroots and local activism.
What made you decide to start leafleting? If you were nervous the first time, how did you get over it?
The easy and effective results –
as well as the feedback from those
who received a booklet from me –
made me want to do more leafleting
and less protesting. The fact that,
through leafleting, I can help create
dozens of new vegetarians, who then
prevent thousands of animals from
life and death in horrible factory
farms is part of a long-term solution
for the animals and environment.
At first, my own security, property
issues and finding good opportunities
were the hurdles. The AAC list is
a great source of support, and provided
me with help getting over the hurdles.
What was your most positive leafleting experience this year and why?
The most positive experience for
me was leafleting the University
of Austin, with over 30,000 students.
I handed out several thousand booklets
in just one day, and likely influenced
dozens to go vegetarian. I even
helped the vegetarian restaurant
across the street.
Also, leafleting rock concerts at
local venues and the Warped Tour
allowed me to give thousands of
booklets to curious and caring youths.
These were overall fun and positive
experiences.
What would you say to individuals hesitant about leafleting?
Join the Adopt a College Yahoo email group to read about and learn from others. You can ask questions of experienced activists. I guarantee you’ll be motivated to become a more effective and efficient activist.
Just leaflet some colleges in your area, which is typically the easiest. Then expand and look up city events and concerts on local venue websites. You can find interesting audiences at events such as AIDS walks, MLK parades, dog park, art and culture festivals. You’ll have fun seeing the world and meeting interesting compassionate people.