This is the latest installment in a series of interviews with DxE activists conducted by Rachel Waite, who is part of the blog team and an organizer for DxE Grand Rapids (MI)

Q: What inspired you to first get involved with activism and join DxE?

In November 2014, I met someone locally who organized DxE actions in Philly. I had been vegan since February and looking for ways to do more for the animals. At first I was really hesitant and scared to protest inside a store, but I was so inspired by DxE actions, so I ended up doing it. I was terrified during my first speakout, but afterward I felt very empowered – and excited to have finally found a network that helped ordinary people take strong action for animals.

Q: What is your favorite or most accomplished moment in activism?

There are so many but one that comes to mind is protesting the Burlington County Farm Fair. My friend Ksenia and I went there two days in a row and both did disruptions. Unlike your average protest - we were right next to these tormented animals while speaking for them. Standing next to chained up, grieving mother cows made that speakout extremely emotional.

Q: Tell us about the working group you're involved with and how it's linked to your activism.

I am involved with the Outreach working group. I can only help with the international aspect of it since I don't live in California (yet), but there is still a lot that can be done no matter where you live. I'm so happy I got involved! I encourage other people to join a working group that interests them!

Q: What keeps you motivated in your activism?

I try to always keep the animals perspective in my mind, and remember how lucky I am to be born human. The animal liberation movement is so different from other movements, because the victims are not the ones leading it. If we were the ones going through these atrocities surely we would be crying out for liberation at any moment possible. No matter how horrible things get, the animals continue to fight for their lives until their very last breath. Animal rights is not about us. We must make their struggle for liberation seen by the world.

Q: What advice would you give to new activists?

My advice to new activists is to never lose hope or doubt yourself. You can change the world for animals and it all starts with you. You are stronger than you think, and you can make a difference in this world. Never give up. Never be ashamed to speak the truth.

Q: Why Animal Liberation?

Every animal is someone who experiences life uniquely, someone who deserves the right to their own body and family, someone just like you and me. Every sentient being is a person - not property. We can no longer condone the mass torture, imprisonment, and murder of our non-human siblings. We need to fight with them, until every animal is free.