What Killed the Monkey
Facebook reactions to “Gross Negligence Alleged in Death of UMass Lab Monkey”
William Robinson: Sounds like the incident didn’t have much to do with the nature of the research itself, but a veterinary mishap resulting from pure accident — not neglect or malice. Consider how frequently standard surgeries on humans have complications. I’d be curious to hear more about the specifics of the studies they’re subjecting the animals to. But, of course, to propose those in the first place there’s an extensive ethical review process. I’ll even bet at least one of the research interns was a young, optimistic vegetarian who felt really bad about the whole incident. It’s not just suits and coats behind closed doors — they’re real people with feelings. I think Jodie Weiderkehr [of the Center for Ethical Science] goes too far with her condemnation, although she clearly has the best of intentions.
Brien Comerford: Accurate and compelling article by Peter Vancini and good work for animals as always by the amazing Jodie Wiederkehr and the Center for Ethical Science.
Therese Davis: Very glad that CFES is diligent in finding and exposing laboratory animal cruelty and deaths. Lab animal testing is so last century … dark ages, wasn’t it? It needs to stop. There are advanced, humane alternatives now.
LGBT Pride Month Massacre
June is LGBT Pride Month in the United States. It commemorates the ’69 Stonewall Uprising in New York City — when lesbians and gay men stood up for their rights to safely gather in a bar to socialize, drink and dance. There are more marches and gatherings planned for the coming June weekends. May the celebrations, albeit with a somber overtone, happen safely throughout our country.
Our hearts are broken for our sisters and brothers in Orlando. Patrons were simply enjoying a night out with music and friends. The survivors will never again enjoy a “night out” casually.
On May 7th, we celebrated Noho Pride’s 35th anniversary march and stage events. There was record attendance, with 25,000 participants from all walks of life. In the early days, we had peacekeepers at our marches in case of physical altercations with protesters. Back then, gun violence was not considered likely.
In more recent years, we have taken for granted our ever-growing allies who march with us and who celebrate equality, justice and love. Yet socially sanctioned acts of violence against people perceived to be lesbian, gay or gender non-conforming are on the rise as LGBT people gain rights and integrate more fully into communities around the country.
We grieve the deaths and emotional toll for the survivors of Pulse in Orlando. This horrific, intentional mass shooting will not stop us from our mission to ensure equality and acceptance in all areas of life for LGBT people.”
J.M. Sorrell,
spokesperson, Noho Pride
