Jon Stewart steps down as host of The Daily Show and steps up to save neglected and abused animals after announcing his plan to turn his farm in Middletown, New Jersey into an animal sanctuary for animals rescued from factory farms.
While being honored at the annual Farm Sanctuary Gala in New York City on October 24, Jon and his wife Tracey announced their plans to become the first New Jersey branch and fourth overall branch of Farm Sanctuary. “We’re getting married. Farm Sanctuary and us, we’re getting married,” Tracey said during their announcement.
Farm Sanctuary, which was founded in 1986, is the nation’s largest farm animal rescue agency whose mission is “to protect farm animals from cruelty, inspire change in the way society views and treats farm animals, and promote compassionate vegan living.”
Animal Loving Is Not New to the Stewarts
The Stewarts bought Bufflehead Farm, a 12-acre farm, which will soon be a non-profit animal sanctuary and home to pigs, cows, sheep, turkeys, goats, chickens, and other animals that have been rescued from factory farms. The couple currently lives with their two children, four dogs, two horses, two pigs, three rabbits, two guinea pigs, two hamsters, one parrot, and two fish.
Jon Stewart has supported animal rights advocacy in the past and has dedicated a portion of one of his last shows to advocating for pigs in New Jersey. During the episode, he showed his support for the New Jersey state bill that would ban pig gestation crates and his disagreement with Governor Chris Christie on the issue.
He also had the co founder and President of Farm Sanctuary, Gene Baur, on another one of his episodes to discuss his new book, Living The Farm Sanctuary Life. Baur discussed how a vegan lifestyle could be the solution to many issues including saving resources, climate change, and our personal health. “We could save 70 percent on health care costs if we shifted to a whole-foods, plant-based diet in this country,” Baur says during the episode.
What Are the Stewarts Planning to Do Next?
Tracey Stewart is known for her animal rights advocacy, being the founder of Moomah the Magazine and her recently published book, Do Unto Animals: A Friendly Guide to How Animals Live, and How We Can Make Their Lives Better. “We talk about taking in ‘rescue animals.’ But the truth is, just as often, animals rescue us,” said Tracey, according to the New York Times.
As a celebrity family, the Stewart’s are doing more than just talking or donating to raise awareness. They are instead, taking action to impact others and to make positive change in the world. “We’re going to build new advocates, new curious learners and new leaders for this very important movement,” Tracey Stewart said during the gala.
The family has a Facebook page for their animal sanctuary, The Daily Squeal, which updates followers on the adventures of their two rescued pigs Anna and Maybelle Stewart. The page reads, “The adoptive mom is an animal activist and Do Unto Others author Tracey Stewart. Dad is none other than Jon Stewart, former host of The Daily Show.” The page features videos, pictures, and updates of the pigs doing things such as playing, eating, and bathing.
According to The Daily Squeal page, the animal sanctuary is not yet ready for visitors or volunteers. For those who are interested in being involved, stay tuned as they hope to be ready for you in the near future.
Jill condon says
Linsay’s article is amazing and informative. The Stewart’s are using their celebrity status for such an important , real cause. Sticking up for beings without a voice. ~ I think it’s the kindest act of humanity. – Jill Condon
Amy Hover says
Yayyyyy for Lindsay’s article and yayyyy for John Stewart!!
Michele says
Lindsay’s article is informative and makes you aware of what is going on with these poor animals. I am a vegetarian because of her. Thank you Lindsay