American Humane Association to Michael Vick: It's Time to Prove Yourself Worthy and Humane
DENVER, Aug. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Humane Association today offered this reaction to Friday's signing of Michael Vick by the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles. It is from Marie Belew Wheatley, president and CEO of the 131-year-old organization that protects both animals and children:
"As publicly stated in late July, American Humane lobbied neither for nor against Vick's reinstatement in the NFL, but did express its sincere hope and expectation that he make good on his stated intention of becoming a visible and strong influence against dogfighting and animal cruelty, and that he will use his celebrity to become a positive role model for compassion and empathy to both people and animals."
"Now that he has a contract to resume a very visible career in the public eye - a lucrative career that few people ever have the chance to experience even once, let alone a second time after committing a horrific and inhumane crime - it's time for Michael Vick to demonstrate he can change and be a force for good. In particular, we hope he can become a positive role model for young people, and that, in light of the incredible second chance he has been given, he now proves himself truly worthy and humane."
About American Humane
Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane develops policies, legislation, curricula and training programs to protect children and animals from abuse, neglect and exploitation. The nonprofit organization, headquartered in Denver, raises awareness about The Link(R) between violence to people and violence to animals, as well as the benefits derived from the human-animal bond. American Humane's regional office in Los Angeles is the exclusive authority behind the "No Animals Were Harmed"(R) end-credit disclaimer on film and TV productions, and American Humane's office in Washington, D.C., is an advocate for child and animal protection at the federal and state levels. The American Humane Certified(TM) farm animal program is the nation's original independent certification and labeling program for humanely raised food (www.thehumanetouch.org). American Humane meets the strong, comprehensive standards of the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, has been awarded the Independent Charities of America's "Best in America" Seal of Approval, and has met the stringent standards for financial efficiency and accountability required by the American Institute of Philanthropy to qualify as a Top-Rated Charity. Visit www.americanhumane.org to learn more.
