It makes no sense to oppose domestic violence by supporting rodeo violence. The link between violence toward women and violence toward animals is clear and proven. Often in homes where there is domestic violence, the family dog or cat is also being hit and kicked around. How is it ok to support calves and horses being hit and thrown around? The animals in rodeos suffer broken bones regularly. These animals are bruised and harassed in the same way that women are bruised and harassed. Very disheartening, and not a charity to support if you're opposed to violence.
Beating up innocent, sentient farm animals (AKA the rodeo) to benefit victims of domestic violence makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. The rodeo has a VERY well documented history of violence and animal abuse. In this male-dominated "sport," contestants use fear, pain, intimidation, domination and sheer terror on innocent creatures. “Discarded" rodeo animals' injuries include: roken necks, crushed tracheas, punctured lungs, ruptured organs, broken bones, torn ligaments, ETC. ETC. These injuries are deliberately inflicted upon innocent animals- and THIS is who you partner with?! It completely de-legitimazes your alleged mission. Serial killers and domestic violence offenders all have one thing in common- they beat up animals first! PLEASE MAKE THE CONNECTION and partner with non-violent organizations.
The call to stand against domestic violence is championed by the Man Up Crusade. They are making a huge impact with the messaging to cowboys and the rodeo participants. Their creativity with forming a campaign to work in each community they enter is timely and specific. They are very professional but also available to brain storm with grass roots organizations that shelter or counsel survivors of domestic violence. It is a pleasure to work with the founders, directors, and volunteers of this organization. They are all individually committed to ending domestic violence.
The Donahue's spend countless hours working to end domestic violence. The unique organization focuses on the social aspect of violence where being masculine is not about the physical toughness and aggressive nature of masculinity, but to "Man-Up" equates to taking responsibility to end the cycle of domestic violence, Thank you for all of your hard work reaching out to communities across the United States with this important message. Your work is and will make a difference.
I really love this organization. My sister worked at a women's shelter for three years and I became more aware of the dangers of domestic violence. I first came into contact with the Man Up Crusade at the Snake River Stampede in Nampa, ID. The rodeo had a "purple night" and the organization was highlighted. They had a booth that was very well situated and the volunteers were friendly and informative. I have since ran a couple of 5k races with the Man Up Crusade team. I look forward to continued involvement with the Man Up Crusade.