Mercy for Animals to march in 2009 Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade

by James Scott of Dallas Vegan

Sunday, September 20, vegans, vegetarians, and others compassionate towards animal rights will march in the 2009 Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade representing Mercy For Animals (MFA).

So why is this big news? To start, not only is this the first organized MFA event in Dallas, but it’s the first in the entire state of Texas. The fact that Dallas can represent this well respected organization in the animal rights community is HUGE – and goes a long way to show the progressive, open-minded culture that exists in the city.

What’s even more amazing is that Nathan Runkle, the founder of MFA, is taking time out of his busy schedule to personally join the march participants on Sunday.

In addition, on Monday evening following the parade, Mr. Runkle will present a private screening of MFA’s new film, Fowl Play, for select activists and local Dallas media. The film documents what goes on behind closed doors at Hy-Line, a major egg hatchery located in Iowa, in an effort to explain how eggs make their way onto the plate and the suffering involved in the process. Attendees will get a chance to speak with Mr. Runkle about the film and his organization.

Nathan Runkle, who recently was inducted into the U.S. Animal Rights Hall Of Fame, founded Mercy For Animals in 1999 at the age of 15. The organization now boasts more than 25,000 members and is a leading activist for farmed animals. They employ a no-nonsense approach towards educating the public by providing information about the abuses occurring on factory farms – usually in the form of undercover investigations, as well as sharing helpful tips for making more cruelty-free choices. Their website, Chooseveg.com, is a wealth of information for those interested in learning more about their investigations.

With so many fantastic and award-winning restaurants, Dallas has come a long way in the vegan dining community. This event will help to solidify this city as a big supporter of animal rights as well.