A Teen’s Courage: Harper’s Stand for Her Best Friend, Onion

Posted by Bridget on March 24, 2025

Harper Garrison, 17, is a high school student in Austin, TX, who met a sheep (who she named Onion!) through the Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. Many students join FFA, 4-H, and other agricultural programs because they sound like fun clubs for folks who are into animals, leadership, and agriculture, but the animals used in these programs are typically destined to one of two heartbreaking fates: to be sold at auction for slaughter or to be used as “breeders” (and likely sent to slaughter later, once they’re no longer profitable).

As Harper raised Onion, she connected with her, realizing they are the same in all the ways that matter; they both feel joy and happiness and want to feel safe and loved. Harper began questioning Onion’s fate, knowing she would be sent back to the farm she came from following the program. 💔

Spending every day with Onion, I watched her personality blossom, and that was my favorite part of raising her. She arrived shy and hesitant, wanting little to do with anyone. But over time, she became bubbly and affectionate. We were inseparable. She’d run with me, let me rest on her, and anytime she spotted a bottle, she’d jump up on me, knowing it was for her. She truly did become my best friend, and I loved seeing her grow and change.

Harper knew she had to do the right thing and secure Onion a permanent, loving home at a sanctuary where she could live out the rest of her days free from exploitation. Despite receiving pushback, she advocated for Onion and was dedicated to improving her life, eventually finding a sanctuary to agree to take her in as a permanent resident. 🥳

Harper’s experience was not without its challenges. However, she discovered the power of community and the importance of perseverance. Her decision to prioritize Onion’s safety over her comfort and societal expectations highlights her selflessness and courage.

When asked why this effort was important, Harper said, “Because Onion is my best friend. At first, I thought returning her to her previous farmer was the best thing for her, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t. I promised her safety, and I was willing to go against the grain to keep that promise. No amount of pushback mattered. Her well-being was more important than my comfort or anyone’s approval.”

From this experience, I learned that there is always a community willing to help; you just have to find them. I couldn’t have done this without the support of so many wonderful people. I also faced numerous hurdles while trying to save Onion. In the past, I might have given up when things became too difficult, but this time, I saw the obstacles as challenges to overcome rather than reasons to quit. That shift in my mindset made all the difference.

We’re honoring Harper with a Compassionate Action Award for her extraordinary dedication and compassion in saving Onion from a life of exploitation. Harper’s commitment to Onion’s well-being and determination to provide her best friend with a safe and loving environment is truly inspiring. ❤️

When asked what advice she would give other young folks who want to help animals, she says, “If you want to help animals, the most important thing you can do is try. Fear regret more than rejection because you’ll never know what’s possible unless you take your first step. For years, I let fear hold me back, but everything changed when I finally chose to try. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to save Onion. Her fate was already uncertain, but by simply trying, I gave her a chance at something better. Take the risk and try. The worst thing isn’t failing. It’s never knowing what could have been.”

Harper’s experience with Onion is a powerful example of what can be achieved through courage and action. Don’t believe anyone who tells you that burying your compassion for animals deep inside yourself will make you strong. They’re wrong. Being strong means having empathy for animals, even when others tell you it’s a weakness. 💪

Here’s How You Can Be a Hero to Animals, Too

If you live near a participating animal sanctuary, you might be able to take part in the Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet (LEAP) program, which is a compassionate alternative to 4-H or FFA programs. You’d have many of the same opportunities that other agriculture programs offer—working with other students from around the region, participating in local events, learning from experts and mentors, receiving financial compensation for your work, and, of course, spending time with the animals—without being encouraged to disconnect from your empathy for other sentient beings and forced to allow the animal you’ve cared for and bonded with to be exploited.

If you’re not near an existing LEAP program, talk to your school about starting one!