The hot topic is “Going Out for the Kill” [Letters, Aug. 27]. I have read the responses to it both online and in a previous letter to the editor [“The Killing Machine,” Sept. 10]. I couldn’t help but notice the extreme contrast between opinions. It seems that many are under the impression that they must choose [whether] they support animal slaughter. When did this become a black-and-white issue?
I was raised on a small farm in rural Kansas. Therefore, I have witnessed firsthand many different variations of animal butchery. I choose not to eat meat. However, I support my family in using a closed cycle and managing the farm sustainably.
I share the curiosity of the previous responder and many others. What can we do to move our communities into a more environmentally positive direction? Are we asking the right questions? If these local farms are making attempts towards sustainability, then the community should support them. Efforts towards creating closed-cycle, efficient facilities and proper waste management should be rewarded.
I may not eat meat, but I support my family in their efforts to live a sustainable lifestyle. Why shouldn’t we treat our community as our extended family?
— MaKailah McKinley
Swannanoa
