Florida native Michael uses every opportunity he gets to spread the message of animal rights. KFC, beware: Colonel Sanders ain't got nothing on him.
Name: Michael DiMartino
Age: 17
Hometown: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
What made you decide to become active for animals?
Wow, the funniest thing about my becoming involved with peta2 is that I was actually introduced to the organization in an extremely unique way. I was in 10th grade in public speaking class doing a debate against vegetarianism. Although I had always loved animals, I had never made the connection between meat and cruelty to animals. In planning for my debate, I often would visit the Web site to get information to use in my debate against vegetarianism. However, once I was at the site, I saw "Meet Your Meat," which I can safely say was the longest and most horrifying 13 minutes of my life. I did a complete turnaround and have been a proud animal activist since.
How long have you been vegetarian/vegan?
I have been a vegetarian now for three years, and I am slowly but surely making the move to a vegan diet. I love the energy I feel and the weight I have lost since my transition. Vegetarianism is a lifestyle that works.
Do you have any companion animals?
Yes, I have the most wonderful dog in the world! Her name is Corona. She is a Pekingese, and she truly is my best friend. She keeps me motivated to help protect animals—when I look into her eyes, I feel inspired and happy. I know there is so much more to these creatures than we will ever know.
Is your family supportive of your animal rights beliefs?
Yet another unique but true story. As much as I hate to admit this, my father is actually a butcher. I know, I know—ironic and weird, but he's been a butcher for more than 15 years, and nothing will change his ways. I have to give him some credit; he has never forced his beliefs or occupation on me. My mother has supported me tremendously in making sure I am never left out when making a meal or having company over. Even on Thanksgiving, I have a Tofurky and vegan cake! In addition to that, when I am watching my 5-year-old nephew, I enjoy serving him veggie dogs or Boca chicken patties. He loves them!
Tell us what happened with the "Kiss the Pig" contest at your school.
I was sitting in art class one day when I heard an announcement that a club at my school was planning a "kiss the pig" contest at our annual Powder Puff game. I knew that there would be nothing funny or exciting about a pig being flung into a crowd of gawking teenagers with loud music, cheers, and bright lights. After alerting peta2, I had a few friends draw up letters, which we submitted to administration. A day or two before the scheduled contest I received word that our school had made the compassionate choice to use a fake pig instead. On the night of Powder Puff, a teacher dressed in a pig costume received a big kiss from one of our most opinionated administrators! The crowd thought it was a hilarious and fun-filled night. Using this more humorous alternative was, in my opinion, funnier and much more worthwhile!
You've done a lot of KFC demos. Have any interesting stories?
I've done numerous KFC demonstrations in many cities in South Florida. My favorite demonstration was actually in January 2007, when KFC executives were down in Miami Beach for their annual South Eastern Franchisee meeting. The executives had no idea that as they were arriving and walking around on sunny South Beach, three beautiful naked peta2 activists were lined directly outside the South Beach Marriott—the hotel where they were staying—armed with banners, posters, and leaflets.
The event was so large, it attracted all but one news outlet in Miami. Our demonstration was also covered on at least three very popular South Florida blogs. Regular South Beach paparazzi were also on hand for the event, snapping photos and rolling video. To me, this demonstration was more successful than I could have ever imagined. KFC executives got the message that day loud and clear: Miami knows "KFC Tortures Chicks!"
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Aside from planning demonstrations against KFC and Burberry, I love to hang out with my friends. I enjoy going to parties and the movies and trying out new veg restaurants!
What's your message to the rest of the peta2 Street Team?
I wish for one second that today's youth realized how much they truly can do, how much they can change the world. I got into peta2 and animal rights about three and a half years ago, and I wouldn't change a thing! The doors this has opened up for me, the people I've met … and of course the most important thing that has come out of all this is the outreach and education I've been able to hand down to my friends and peers.
One last thing. Who would win in a fight: you or Colonel Sanders?
I understand it wouldn't be hard to battle Colonel Sanders, because as everyone knows, only the weakest people harm those who are weaker than themselves. However, for those who don't know, Colonel Sanders ain't got nothing on me! Bring it!
The real question goes to David Novak, CEO of Yum! Brands: Wanna rumble?
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