Here’s something you may not know about me. For the past year, I’ve volunteered weekly at Aloha Animal Sanctuary. I spend weekends rubbing piggy bellies and cleaning their hales.
Out of all the animals, I often get asked why I chose to work with the pigs. The most straightforward answer is that I took the position because I had a small but real apprehension toward pigs. I wanted to learn more about them, their personalities, and what it takes to care for these large animals since it’s my dream to one day have a sanctuary of my own.
I have always been aware of the strength of pigs; a healthy pig can weigh over 700 pounds. Before I started my volunteering position with Aloha, I had only briefly interacted with pigs from a distance during my time with Luvin’ Arms in Erie, Colorado. Unfortunately, I was unable to learn much about the pigs during my time there, as I spent the majority of my time interacting with cows such as the remarkable Tito.
When the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t have a single apprehension. I jumped at the chance to interact with these animals because I wanted to understand them better. I felt (and continue to feel) honored to have the opportunity to be a part of their lives, to learn from them, and to have this time every week.
Aloha Animal Sanctuary
Aloha Animal Sanctuary opened its doors, or barns, in 2019. The primary goal? Create a secure refuge for a community often neglected and mistreated while also nurturing a connection between individuals and the resident animals.
“The sanctuary was founded by a team of animal rights activists who recognized there was a need for a sanctuary for farmed animals on O’ahu. Many people have never had the chance to interact with animals like pigs, cows, chickens, or turkeys, although we slaughter and eat them by the billions annually. We want to help people form personal connections with these animals, and see them for the individuals that they are.”
Aloha Animal Sanctuary (About Page)
Currently, the sanctuary is the first and only non-profit farm animal sanctuary on the island of O’ahu. And I want to say something on that; in 2022, I attended a panel representing four animal sanctuaries in Denver (and the surrounding area). Each sanctuary representative discussed the constant requests they receive to home an animal (whether for lost/found, abuse, lack of resources, violations in city ordinance, etc.). Daily, these sanctuaries receive calls, and daily, they have to turn down animals because housing is full or the funding isn’t available.
Some may feel they are animals; that’s the way it goes. But it’s that separation, not only mental but spiritual, that causes problems from the start. I don’t want to detour you with overused finger-pointing, but as the saying goes, when I point the finger at you, I have four pointed back at me. Therefore, it’s all a reframing of “be the change you wish to see.” It is myself I look to; my actions, education, voice, and compassion. Yours is of equal power. It’s my hope that sharing these places makes space for conversations.
We can be part of a collective. But in the end, it’s up to you.
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” printed on mugs, t-shirts, and posters; it has trended so far that we’ve almost lost sight of what change looks like, how it feels. The power of the meaning and why we might actually need to change.
Get Involved: Aloha Animal Sanctuary
If you’re on island, be sure to visit or volunteer your time. If you want to show virtual support, check out their online merchandise, or you can follow along with each animals journey via Instagram @alohaanimalsanctuary
Aloha Animal Sanctuary puts on various monthly events including yoga and community volunteer days! Check out their events page or join their email list for updates on what’s going on this month – contact page
Leaving You with These Final Thoughts
Do I always want to go to the sanctuary? No. Few of us can honestly say we don’t feel tired or lazy when the obligation sirens sound. But I continue to go for many reasons. Even on my lowest, most homebody day, stepping foot on the property and being around the animals brings a sense of peace. Mostly, my work is wholly selfish. I enjoy how I feel when I’m around the animals, when I’m outside, and when I’m removed from the internal task monologue, which seems loudest on weekends.
I’ve learned so much since my start in 2023. Details and emotional connections you won’t find in books or watching documentaries.
I know the comfort Elle gets when you rub her belly. I’ve watched Palekane get the post-dinner zoomies. I’ve seen their eyes, the way they look at you. See you. They know their names, and they remember your face. They seek attention and explore. They have personalities, rivals, and companions. They enjoy cuddles and pets, cold water plunges, and scratches. They share joy and sorrow. They value their life.
I strive to encourage exploration into these unknown places. Whether that be physical or mental, unknown within yourself or other sentient beings.
Willfully ignorant or willfully inactive are choices we have the right to make. But if it’s actions you control that causes discomfort or shame, isn’t that a loud enough call for change?
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