Brentwood, New York – A local teenager is facing charges of animal cruelty after allegedly striking a black cat with a metal bar outside Brentwood High School. The incident was captured on video and shared on social media, sparking outrage in the community. In response to the disturbing attack, TeachKind, the humane education division of PETA, reached out to the school’s acting principal, Dashana Dulin, with an urgent letter and educational materials on kindness to animals. This includes resources such as “Empathy Now” and “Challenging Assumptions” to help prevent violence among young people.
PETA’s Senior Director of Youth Programs, Marta Holmberg, emphasized the importance of teaching empathy to young individuals. She stated that compassion can be nurtured, and it is crucial for students to understand the value of empathy and respect towards all living beings. Sandy Hook Promise identifies cruelty to animals as one of the key warning signs of potential violence, with research indicating that a significant percentage of school shooters had a history of animal abuse. TeachKind’s resources are designed to be easily incorporated into school curricula to promote a culture of compassion and prevent future acts of violence.
Furthermore, PETA underscores the belief that animals are not to be mistreated in any way and advocates for the recognition of every animal as an individual. The organization offers free Empathy Kits for those seeking to improve their understanding and treatment of animals. TeachKind provides complimentary presentations, lessons, and resources for educators looking to instill compassion in their teaching. To learn more about TeachKind and access their materials, individuals can visit their website or connect with them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
TeachKind’s efforts aim to address the interconnectedness between animal cruelty and violence in society, stressing the significance of empathy and respect for all beings. By engaging with schools and providing educational tools, the organization hopes to foster a culture of kindness and understanding among students, promoting a safer and more compassionate community for both animals and humans alike.