Contributed by Andi Saccoccio, Manager of Culture and Belonging
Each year our nation pauses to reflect upon the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., who devoted his life to championing equity and justice for all people. King believed that changing the lives of the most vulnerable within a society would go on to create a positive impact on the whole of society.
At Seattle Humane, we are working to honor Dr. King’s legacy to address inequality by exploring:
- How racial bias impacts access to adoption, guiding us to make changes in our policies and procedures so that we can more effectively support people and animals.
- The connections between breed restrictions and racial inequity, informing our work with partner organizations to lobby for systemic changes in housing regulations for pet owners.
- The reality of “service deserts” in districts with historically marginalized communities, inspiring us to partner with community leaders in those areas so that we can bring pet access and support, including veterinary services and pet food and supplies to them.
- The inherent challenges historically underrepresented students face in pursuing careers in animal welfare, informing our efforts to work with local and national educational organizations to address these patterns.
As Seattle Humane celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we are grateful for the vision he inspired, encouraging our work to strengthen the human-animal bond, save lives and complete families.
Learn more about Seattle Humane’s history and how the organization continues to champion pets and the who love them.
