Hello! I’m Tommy, and I want to share a message that comes from the heart. As a living being, I sometimes feel overshadowed by the love and affection people have for their cats and dogs. Yet, at our core, we are not so different. Like your beloved pets, we experience emotions and feelings—we long for life, love, and connection.

Unfortunately, society has conditioned many to believe that animals like me have little value. This disconnect often leads to the harsh reality that, during the Thanksgiving season, an estimated 46 million of us will be slaughtered, many at just five months old. It’s a somber statistic that reflects a deeper cultural narrative: one that celebrates gratitude and life while simultaneously inflicting suffering and death on other beings.

Isn’t it paradoxical to gather around a table to give thanks for life while contributing to the destruction of it? None of us wish to meet our end on a plate, and it’s crucial to recognize the suffering behind the meal. This year, I urge you to reflect on this reality. Choose compassion over tradition.

There are numerous plant-based alternatives available that allow you to celebrate Thanksgiving without causing harm. By opting for these alternatives, you not only spare countless lives but also embrace a more ethical and compassionate approach to the holiday.

I am grateful to those who have chosen to save lives like mine, enabling me to share my story. This Thanksgiving, I invite you to find compassion in your heart and leave us off your plate. Together, we can create a kinder world for all living beings. Thank you for listening.