Ever wonder what it would be like to intern with Mercy For Animals? We interviewed Pamela Stelmasek, who just completed an internship at our Chicago office, and asked her to give us the scoop.
A native Illinoisan, Pamela adopted a vegan diet after coming to the conclusion that there is no difference between her beloved dog and the farmed animals that become food. She believes that it is unfair to treat one with love and respect, but then turn around and eat the other.
What first inspired you to become a vegan?
One day it just clicked for me. I was a vegetarian for two years, and something just made me realize that I was being a hypocrite. Not only is there animal cruelty in the dairy industry itself, but the dairy industry also contributes to the meat industry. If I really wanted to help animals and take a stand, I had to cut out everything that came from an animal. I did that four years ago and have never looked back!
Why did you choose to intern with MFA?
I chose to intern with MFA because I thought it was a great organization. The group is specific about what it wants to accomplish. I like the fact that MFA focuses on farmed animals and works to get as much done with that one particular group. Doing that is highly impactful. MFA is a great voice for farmed animals who really are crying out for someone to speak for them. MFA does just that and has produced a lot of great results for these helpless animals.
What did you like most about interning with MFA?
I loved being able to go to all the different festivals and tabling events this summer. You get to talk to and meet so many interesting people. Each festival is so different from the one before, yet you always get a great crowd. It was awesome to be able to have actual conversations with people and educate them. I absolutely loved hosting Paid-Per-View events, as so many people are completely shocked about how their food is actually produced. It was hands-down my favorite thing to do!
What is your favorite vegan/animal rights resource?
I have two favorites: ChooseVeg.com is such a great site for people who are just starting out or are really curious about becoming veg. Plus, the recipes are great for everyone! My other favorite is MFA’s Vegetarian Starter Kit. It has pretty much everything you need to know–from reasons why you should not eat animals, to health tips, environmental issues, how you can get everything you ever needed from plant-based foods, and suggestions on which great foods to eat.
What is the key to your success as an activist?
The absolute two biggest things would have to be passion and dedication. Those two things really push you forward into getting things done. They help you deal with the good and the bad, whether that be with people you encounter or different situations in everyday activism.
Can you offer any insight for others interested in becoming involved with animal rights activism?
Jump right in! I found an organization that I really liked, which had values similar to my own and was dedicated to a cause I was very passionate about. I saw that they offered an internship and just went for it. You will never want to stop once you start!
