Nothing gives validity more to a social cause than having celebrities offering their names in support of its agenda. The “cruelty-free movement” has become an international social movement that has gathered a lot of stars and superstars among followers.
Internationally, Sir Paul McCartney is perhaps the most famous voice protesting the use of animals in testing cosmetics. Adding to his name on the roster we have Peter Dinklage of Game of Thrones notoriety, Mayim Bialik – The Big Bang Theory, Ricky Gervais – The UK’s not-so-secret weapon against hypocrisy, and we can’t go wrong with Bob Barker from The Price is Right. The list continues to grow and with it, an awareness of a voice that needs to be heard by manufactures and an empowered consumer base. Check out some more supporters at Humane Society.
The most know organizations working towards ending animal testing on products is Peta and Cruelty Free International. The task of cruelty-free organizations is to educate consumers. Why do they use animals to test make up products? The reason given is that before a human either ingests or topically applies a product the manufacturer has to make sure it’s safe. So the next question is: Can they test products without sacrificing animals? And the answer is “yes!” One thing they can do in creating new products is to use ingredients that have already been approved. Another alternative is invitro cell cultures that are constructed in test tubes or petri dishes outside the body. These tests use biological material or cells that are extracted without catastrophic consequences to the animal. That way no additional souls need be sacrificed.
If you buy products that are sold in China, they are testing on animals. For a list of companies that are cruelty-free, you can visit Leaping Bunny. They also have an App which comes in very handy when you’re shopping. Get it for Apple here or Android here.
We applaud the fact that the list of celebrities who have added themselves in solidarity with the rest of us is growing, and our voice is becoming stronger. They have given the painful and cruel testing of products on animals an international platform. The intent behind their activism is that even though animal testing has been banned in countries such as the United States, these practices continue to exist in China and other countries. And only by “taking to the streets” can we raise consciousness throughout the world about this practice being wrong. It must stop! And the best way to have this end is by educating consumers.
