Voters For Animal Rights

After 10 years of building Voters For Animal Rights from the ground up, I have big news to share.

I have accepted the position of Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare. I’m incredibly honored to continue fighting for animals from inside City Hall, and I’ll remain involved with VFAR in an advisory capacity.

Over the past decade, together we’ve proven something extraordinary: political advocacy for animals works. Together, we have:

🐘 Passed NYC’s ban on wild animals in circuses
🦆 Passed NYC’s foie gras ban
🐹 Ended the sale of guinea pigs in pet stores
🐶 Passed the Backyard Breeder Law
🐙 Led passage of NY’s industrial octopus farming ban, now awaiting the Governor’s signature
🐱 Secured historic city funding for affordable spay/neuter services and pet food pantries
🗳️ Helped elect dozens of animal champions to public office

None of this happened because of one person. It happened because thousands of New Yorkers volunteered, donated, organized, voted, and showed up for animals.

It is my privilege to introduce the exceptional leaders who will lead VFAR into its next era:

🌟 Julie Cappiello is now President. She helped bring VFAR to life in 2016 and has been essential to VFAR’s growth, transforming our digital fundraising, communications, and grassroots engagement while helping shape our political strategy.

💫 Mian Osumi is our Policy & Advocacy Manager — our first-ever hire! She is a savvy, nimble social justice organizer. She will be on the ground organizing electoral & legislative campaigns across NY State.

✨ Suriya Khan joins our Board of Directors. An experienced nonprofit leader and true systems disruptor, Suriya brings decades of wisdom and experience challenging the status quo. She works to transform food systems and advance a more sustainable and just world.

With Julie leading the organization, Mian leading our campaigns, and Suriya guiding our governance, I know VFAR’s best days are ahead. Please continue supporting the organization we’ve built together. The animals are counting on us, and together, we’ll keep delivering the victories they deserve.

With gratitude,

Allie Taylor
Founder, Voters For Animal Rights

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