A lesson in turning adversaries into allies

John Lewis was my representative in congress, and he greatly influenced my philosophy about how we should approach social justice work, especially with regard to collaborating with those who hate or resist our efforts. He writes: "Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. Choose confrontation wisely, but when it is your time don't be afraid to stand up, speak up, and speak out against injustice."

Maryn McKenna's work to expose the dirty underside of our food system has inspired me at many moments along my journey to do the same. This book is about so much more than chickens — it's an exploration of how corporate powers wield the food industry as a weapon against public health and the environment.

Few writers have as eloquently explored the ethical, environmental and societal dilemmas our species faces as we reckon with our consumption of other animals. This book is an enjoyable read and a great place to start for those interested in learning more about how to act and eat more ethically.

Ever since I was a child observing resident ducks in my backyard in central Florida, I've been fascinated by the inner lives of animals. Their minds are, as De Waal so expertly illustrates, so much more complex than we humans can grasp. This book changed the way I see our fellow creatures and inspires me to consider them, always, as the thinking, feeling beings they are.

Philip Lymbery is a longtime mentor of mine, and reading his book about our food system's many failures inspired me consider the period of ecosystem collapse we are in and how it's specifically related to our food system.

Like many social justice advocates, I am deeply inspired by the writing of Martin Luther King Jr., especially this letter. His framing of the ways in which we must engage with our so-called enemies is a foundation for my work to partner with those with whom I disagree.