Later this month, President Biden will pardon two turkeys at the White House, a symbolic gesture of mercy. Yet, every year in the U.S., over 224 million turkeys endure a far grimmer fate. These gentle birds are raised in overcrowded sheds thick with toxic fumes, their beaks and toes clipped to prevent stress-related aggression.

At just 16 weeks, they are slaughtered–throats slit, bodies dumped into boiling water for feather removal. Meanwhile, their meat, laden with cholesterol and saturated fat, poses health risks to consumers.

But there’s promising news: U.S. turkey production has declined significantly as more Americans embrace plant-based options. This Thanksgiving, let’s celebrate our good fortune with a cruelty-free meal–plant-based roasts, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and grains. An internet search for “vegan Thanksgiving” offers countless delicious, compassionate recipes.

Iakov Mondragon

Elkins