I am an avid animal rights activist. I love animals and I enjoy them in my day-to-day life. At first when I heard about Cecil the lion, I was outraged. I was angry that someone would kill such a beautiful creature. However, I realized that there are people dying worse deaths everyday. There are people, especially disabled veterans, who don’t get nearly as much TV airtime than the ASPCA.

Human interest stories were shoved to side, black lives matter was being taken less seriously, after Cecil’s story hit the air. I see people protesting outside the dentist who killed Cecil’s office everyday. I wish that people had that same passion for the homeless and the injustices in human lives.

This story could be tied in with many stories. A lot of people have been talking about how some white people value animals at a higher level than poor and minority people. Compassion for the human race can make a great society. We can help animals, but also help humans too. We often forget about our human siblings. Remember to always help someone who looks like they are in need. Help create a better future for humankind; and yes help our furry friends too.

The recent killing of Cecil the Lion by Eden Prairie dentist Walter Palmer has animal lovers all over the world in uproar. Perhaps people are going so crazy because Cecil was killed solely for sport, or maybe it’s because Zimbabwe has laws regulating lion hunting. No matter what the reason, this case has been all over the news for weeks.

A case like this should be a big deal. People need to become more aware of what is going on in the environment around them. Blatant disregard for large animals that humans are supposed to coexist with will only advance problems related to extinction and over-hunting. It is good that people are making a big deal about this because animals cannot stand up for themselves.

In addition, there is an infinite number of problems in the world. The only way some of these problems will be solved is if people choose what they are passionate about and fight for their cause, no matter how seemingly ‘small’ or ‘insignificant’ that cause may be. I encourage people to rant on about Cecil the Lion because if they don’t, another lion will follow him soon.