YEAH! Working with the Humane Society of the United States and the Humane Society International

It is with GREAT excitement today that I write this blog post!

Upon initiating our journey to introduce new legislation in the state of Virginia some 6 months ago, both Stacee and I realized that to accomplish our goals we were going to need the assistance of some pretty awesome people and organizations. What we could not have expected, is that the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the Humane Society International (HSI) would agree to help us with our cause!!!

I know, so exciting right?!

For those of you who may not be too familiar with these organizations, let me take you on a brief educational tangent...

1) The HSUS:

The best way to introduce you to the HSUS is essentially by letting them introduce themselves:

"The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest and most effective animal protection organization—backed by 11 million Americans, or one in every 28. Established in 1954, The HSUS seeks a humane and sustainable world for all animals—a world that will also benefit people. We are America's mainstream force against cruelty, exploitation and neglect, as well as the most trusted voice extolling the human-animal bond."

...

The Mission Statement of the HSUS is titled "Celebrating Animals, Confronting Cruelties" and ends on this promising note... "Our track record of effectiveness has led to meaningful victories for animals in Congress, state legislatures, courtrooms and corporate boardrooms."

For more information see: http://www.humanesociety.org/about/overview/
For the HSUS position on shark conservation see: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/sharks/

2) The HSI:

"Humane Society International is one of the only international animal protection organizations in the world working to protect all animals—including animals in laboratories, farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife—and our record of achievement demonstrates our dedication and effectiveness."

The HSI has had incredible success literally around the world through various campaigns and initiatives, on everything from the dog fur trade in China to annual attendance at the meeting of the International Whaling Commission. They strive to provide "local empowerment" through education, awareness and assistance, "disaster services" in response to natural catastrophies, and also work towards limiting the harmful impact of "policy & trade" in wildlife.

For more information please visit: http://www.hsi.org/about/how_we_work/

All told, and in short, these organizations ROCK!

We can't wait to learn from them, assist them in any way we can, and work towards getting legislation to ban the sale, trade, and possession of shark fins in the state of Virginia passed!