What inspired you to first get involved with activism and to join DxE?

I was inspired to protest from watching DxE protest. I was honorably discharged from the army and when I got out, I wanted to get involved and not hold back my voice. Seeing other activists who were not be afraid to say what's wrong with this world, is the exact reason why I joined.

What is your favorite or most accomplished moment in activism or other DxE activity?

My first speak out at “the burger battle” was my most accomplished moment. I feel accomplished when I rush through the gates and disrupt places of violence. I feel empowered in the face of conflict. I am also empowered by those who watch and listen. Some people just want to yell nonsense to me, but I know there are other people who are intently listening to what I have to say during a protest.

Are you a part of any unique activism or working groups in your chapter and how do they influence your activism?

I am involved with the social media team, where I help to project the voice of DxE to the world. We have a weekly meet up which helps me stay on top of things and keeps me learning and growing as an activist.

How do you stay motivated as an activist?

Seeing the number of activists growing is my biggest motivation. I know that it is tough getting someone to listen at first, but if you keep educating people, I promise one day a light switch will come on and they will realize, as I realized once a upon time, that what we were doing was wrong. I find it best to talk to people one on one and help them change their ways to vegan eating or help them get involved with activism.

What advice would you give to new activists?

Don't be afraid to speak out for the animals. You are their hope. If it wasn't for you being so courageous, the animals would be in bigger trouble than they already are.

Why Animal Liberation?

No being on earth deserves to be treated the way we treat animals. I was completely shocked when I first found out about all the issues going on with animals that are caused by humans. I later found it crazy, that I had never thought about animals once and how they were treated. I wish someone would have told me that eating animals was wrong growing up, so that I could make that informed decision not to take part in cruelty.

Want to get involved? DxE is a grassroots network focused on empowering you to be the best activist you can be. Here are some steps you can take.

1. Sign up to our mailing list and share our content on social media.
2. Join a local DxE community (or, better yet, come visit us in Berkeley).
3. Take the Liberation Pledge. And join us in building a true social movement for animals.