‘The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.’
This quote by Albert Einstein really resonates with me. There are millions of people out there who believe in causes like mine, yet do nothing about it. I understand it is hard due to economic reasons or other personal matters, but by raising awareness you are at least doing something. I am only a student, in his mid 20’s who has lived and grown up in Australia, yet I am empowering myself to make a difference. This is a massive undertaking, but I will not stop until I have achieved my goals.
There are approximately 400,000 elephants left in the wild, with 30,000 elephants left in Kenya. In 2011, it is estimated 25,000 were poached and rose to 30,000 in 2012. Due to the massive ivory seizures around the world this year, I think that by the end of 2013 the number is going to be frighteningly high indeed. Why I mentioned Kenya, is that their main source of economy comes from ecotourism. If the African Elephant becomes extinct, then Kenya will suffer immensely and so will the whole continent. I understand that it is not about money, but without money things become very hard and difficult, especially when it comes to the fight against poaching.
I know it is one thing to say or write something, but I believe when people are shown images of something they take it to a deeper understanding. They become more aware and can actually see what is going in the world, not just from a bunch of statistics. People take pieces of information differently and what I’m going to show you will almost certainly make you feel uncomfortable due to the graphic nature (as such I have not put them in, rather used links)
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING ARE LINKS TO GRAPHIC IMAGES THAT SOME PEOPLE MAY FIND OFFENSIVE.
These pictures have all been taken over the past few years, yet the extent of horror and damage is still the same. I can’t believe there are people in this world who do this, and make a living out of it; it really makes me sick. My purpose is to show you as the audience that these animals face cruelty and there is no need for this barbarity, that I am not just giving you statistics, I am deeply hurt and offended every time I see one of these images just like you are. Every time I hear of more elephants being slaughtered, I can’t help but think of these images and how disgusted I am that this still continues.
Please continue to support and help the animals who are struggling to survive each and everyday, and passon to your family and friends that there are people who want to make a difference in the world.
- Daniel
Twitter: @plightvoiceless
PS: July 31st is International Ranger Day and commemorates those dedicated to fighting to protect the species of flora and fauna around the world, as well as those who have been killed or injured in their line of duty. Rangers across Africa and the world face a battle everyday trying to stop poachers, who are becoming more heavily armed and making the life of a ranger very dangerous. I have never met a ranger from Africa, but I have the utmost respect for each and everyone of them who is out there everyday fighting to protect those who cannot protect themselves. I know I'll be saying a prayer for them on this day especially and thank them for all their tireless work. Follow the link below to see their work and a message from Prince Harry and Jane Goodall:
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