The link between social justice movements and animal rights activism is increasingly recognized. Notable examples are the new farmed animal sanctuaries led by the LGBTQIA community. These sanctuaries not only serve as havens for animals rescued from the current food system but promote inclusivity, compassion, and equality. By sharing the stories of LGBTQIA-led farm sanctuaries, we can showcase the diverse perspectives within the movement and work toward a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.
Lancaster Farm Sanctuary
Lancaster Farm Sanctuary’s primary goal is to rescue farmed animals and offer them refuge while inspiring people to practice empathy in their lives. Through individual connections, public education, and partnerships, LFS strives to enhance the well-being of all community members, regardless of species.Â
Happy Compromise Farm + Sanctuary (HCF+S)
Happy Compromise Farm + Sanctuary aims to create connections between animals, humans, and our planet. They provide lifelong homes for both farmed and companion animals, grow food for their community using veganic agriculture, and promote sustainable and eco-friendly living to address climate change. Founded and run by LGBTQ individuals, the organization also works to dismantle oppressive systems and maintain an inclusive and safe environment at the sanctuary.
Foreverland Farm
Foreverland Farm, located in southern Ohio, seeks to provide a compassionate home for farmed animals who have been abandoned, abused, or discarded. The sanctuary aims to contribute to a kinder world by showcasing the resilience and perseverance of their animals; engaging the community; providing education on animal abuse and rescue; and offering a safe, inclusive, and uplifting environment for both animals and people.
VINE Sanctuary
LGBTQ-led VINE promotes social and environmental justice and animal liberation. They offer refuge to numerous animals in a one-of-a-kind multispecies environment. VINE pioneered the rehabilitation of roosters who were involved in cockfighting. The sanctuary relies on solar power and operates from an ecofeminist perspective that acknowledges how humans harm animals, each other, and the environment.
Herd & Flock Animal Sanctuary
Herd & Flock Animal Sanctuary rescues neglected and mistreated farmed animals, providing them with loving homes. Since its establishment in 2019, the sanctuary has saved more than 750 animals. The animals also help educate the community about the complexity of their mental and emotional lives. Herd & Flock believes that spending time with the animals and learning about the harsh realities of factory farming often lead people to reassess their consumption of meat and dairy products.
Heartwood Haven
Heartwood Haven Animal Sanctuary began when the co-founders heard about roosters rescued from cockfighting in need of homes. Despite having no prior experience with chickens, they took one into their home to prevent him from being euthanized. They named him Porter. Since then, they have rescued over 200 animals, focusing on special-needs and abused animals.
Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
Woodstock Farm Sanctuary aims to end animal agriculture by rescuing farmed animals, providing them with permanent sanctuary, and educating people about the harmful effects of animal farming. All the resident animals are treated with respect as unique individuals. By giving farmed animals a chance to live with dignity and sharing their stories, the sanctuary advocates veganism and strives to reduce suffering for all.
LGBTQIA-led farmed animal sanctuaries are leading a powerful movement that recognizes the interconnectedness of social justice causes. They provide safe spaces for animals and humans, promote compassionate living, emphasize intersectionality, and empower marginalized voices. These sanctuaries are making a profound difference in the lives of animals and in the world. Their work exemplifies how compassion and activism can create positive change and foster a more inclusive and just society. By embracing diversity, intersectionality, animal rights, and plant-based foods, these organizations are paving the way for a more just and inclusive world.Â
