The Humane Society of the US (HSUS) is in doo-doo over the (mis)treatment of women by some of its executives including the CEO.
Now, just over a year later, the Humane Society [of the United States], one of the largest animal rights groups in the country, finds itself ensnared in a widening controversy over sexual harassment in the upper levels of the nonprofit’s management. An outside law firm has investigated allegations against CEO Wayne Pacelle that date back to 2005, according to a memo obtained by the Washington Post. The memo details a perception, based on 33 interviews, that women could get ahead in the workplace by becoming romantically involved with Pacelle. One of the women reported that Pacelle, on a work trip in 2006, asked her to take off her clothes and perform oral sex, and asked her whether he could masturbate in front of her. Pacelle has denied the allegations.
Yeesh. But let's be clear: The HSUS is an advocacy organization (anti-cruelty, pro-vegan, rabidly anti-hunting, etc.) unrelated to the humane society that runs your local animal shelter. Don't let the good name and work of the shelters prompt you to donate to the HSUS. One would expect news stories to point out the distinction, but no luck. For what it's worth, the (A)SPCA is also distinct from the other two organizations.
If you love your local shelter, keep it up. But don't be fooled by the HSUS.
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