In Wayne’s Own Words: Empire Building & Lobbying Main Activities at HSUS
It’s no secret that the “Humane Society” of the United States is a “humane society” in name only, and that they are in actuality (according to HSUS CEO Wayne Pacelle) a “sophisticated political organization.” Lest you think I make this stuff up, I’d like to refer to Wayne’s own blog, today discussing HSUS’ acquisition of stock in both Jack & the Box and Steak & Shake restaurants.
Perhaps like me, you’re confused as to why an organization that takes advantage of tax exempt status typical afforded to charitable organizations is buying stock in publicly traded corporations. The answer, as it turns out, is quite simple: the organization wants to force those companies into business practices that will put them out of business.
As Wayne shares in his blog, HSUS is actively buying stock in major restaurant chains across the country to force them into buying food produced exclusively by HSUS approved production practices, food that is by definition more expensive to produce, and to buy. Ergo, HSUS wants to drive up the cost of meat and animal-derived proteins, and thus drive down demand for those foods.
Most importantly, consumers should question the very credibility of an organization that purports to be a “humane society” but instead is aggressively manipulating corporate America and our elected officials.
We’re also pressing ahead on the public policy front, but the decisions by corporations on food purchasing practices affect the lives of billions of animals raised for food. We’re conscious of that, and making the case for improved treatment to these corporate leaders.
Last week, The HSUS was in the news for purchasing shares in two such companies: Jack in the Box and Steak ‘n Shake. Despite most of these companies’ top competitors—including Burger King, Denny’s, Wendy’s, Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s, Quiznos and Red Robin (in addition to IHOP and Sonic)—having made animal improvements, Jack in the Box and Steak ‘n Shake remain stagnant on the issue. We’ll use our position as a stockholder to try and change that by attending the companies’ annual meetings and submitting shareholder resolutions calling on them to make changes. We also continue pressuring Waffle House and Bob Evans to make meaningful improvements for animals.Read more at hsus.typepad.com
