Distinguished Lawmaker to be Honored Posthumously by The Humane Society of the United States
Throughout his life, U.S. Representative Tom Lantos was a leader and visionary on matters dealing with animal protection. His passion for advancing humane values has left a rich legacy, and The Humane Society of the United States mourns his passing today. As a founder and co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus and leader on many bills, Congressman Lantos was in the forefront of efforts to create greater public awareness and legislative action on a wide range of animal welfare issues.
Congressman Lantos was constant and steadfast in his leadership in championing the needs of pets such as his beloved dog Gigi and other animals in disaster planning. He worked to stop cruel seal hunts, call attention to the killing of dogs in foreign countries, and address animal fighting, horse slaughter, puppy mills, antifreeze safety, canned hunts, bear baiting, non-animal methods in chemical testing, marine mammal protection, downed animal mistreatment and other farm animal welfare issues.
"Today, as we mourn the passing of Representative Lantos, we remember him as a remarkable leader and advocate for the protection and defense of all animals," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. "In recognition of his devoted work for animals, The HSUS will honor Representative Lantos with the Joseph Wood Krutch Medal, its highest honor."
The Joseph Wood Krutch Medal is named for the distinguished public intellectual who spent his last years defending nature and animals. The life and spirit of Joseph Wood Krutch epitomize the same commitment to celebrating animals and preventing cruelty that have motivated The HSUS since its founding in 1954. Representative Lantos is the 40th person to be honored with the award. Previous recipients have included Joy Adamson, Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall, James Herriot, and Richard Leakey.
The Humane Society of the United States sends its condolences to the entire Lantos family. His wife Annette was always at his side, sharing his passion for animal welfare. Together, they made an unmatched team seeking to make the world a more humane place.
-30-
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.
