Wow, if INGRID had just said, "Hey Michael Moore, we would like to point out that a vegetarian lifestyle leads to better health, and it's preventative medicine!" I bet Moore would have been happy to help out!

But to attack his weight? Shame on you. That's none of your business. Why didn't you just tell him his shoe size was puny? Could you have been more insulting?

If I were Moore I would tell PETA to shove it. Seriously. If I were Ingrid I would retract that statement and say that she just meant that he should go vegetarian. An apology is needed.

Unless PETA plans to keep labelling people as fat and unhealthy. Respectfully, I think you should apologize to him.

Posted by: Maya | June 22, 2007 03:28 PM

ps

On a nicer note, PETA, I'm writing a film script for Script Frenzy, and in honor of you guys I made all the characters vegans. Just thought I'd tell ya.

Posted by: Maya | June 22, 2007 04:38 PM

Maya, you should name one of your characters after Jack! The blog master....

Posted by: Linda | June 22, 2007 05:35 PM

The truth hurts sometimes.

Posted by: Rob | June 22, 2007 05:36 PM

GOOD FOR INGRID!!!! If Michael Moore didn't eat so many dead animals, he'd, no doubt, not be the size of an elephant. Ingrid tells it like it is. As well she should!!!

Posted by: Elaine Sloan | June 22, 2007 05:38 PM

Linda - Ah, Blogmaster Jack. A Johnny Depp pirate rival! Perfect.

Posted by: Maya | June 22, 2007 05:40 PM

As a supporter of PETA, I'd like to write that I think the way that you went about it was a bit much. There was a more tactful approach, much like Maya wrote above.

Posted by: Noelle | June 22, 2007 05:42 PM

I would love to see Michael Moore make a doc that deals with animal ethics and the meat industry -- that would be very powerful.

Posted by: Mike B | June 22, 2007 05:42 PM

I agree with Maya.

Posted by: Luiza | June 22, 2007 05:43 PM

Way to go Ingrid! People always lump animal rights in as being a "liberal" issue, but this sort of thing shows that compassion has nothing to do with what side of the aisle you're on.

Posted by: Coolidge | June 22, 2007 05:50 PM

I find it interesting that liberals get up in arms when we criticize one of our own. I agree that this is harsh, but no harsher than many of the attacks by PETA towards the 'bad guys.' I am a proponent of civility in any discourse, even if the other side is despicable. I would love to see Michael Moore (or Dick Cheney) go veg and get healthy. PETA has never been known for playing nice and that has always been a disappointment for the peaceful vegan warriors out there.

Posted by: Scott Dubya | June 22, 2007 05:52 PM

Phantastic action by PeTA once again. Mike Moore's movies are important, as well as the one by Al Gore, but not sufficient in probably the main cause for illness, aggression, nature destruction and global warming: animal consumption.

Posted by: Stephanie G. | June 22, 2007 05:54 PM

I enjoy PETA and what it stands for. I am an animal lover through and through and usually agree with its high ethics for animals. However, I think the manner in which Ingrid presented her concern to Michael Moore was very insulting, unwarranted, and immature.

Should she have delivered such a letter to me, I would disregard my loyalty to PETA and feel attacked by it, as she is the supreme representative of it. I would remain faithful to the cause, but Ingrid and the organization's reputation would surely take a turn for the worst in my eyes.

Ingrid, please do what's right and retract the unnecessary portion of your letter and apologize to Michael Moore. Enough people hate us vegetarians and animal-lovers already and call us crazy. Actions like this only allow others to think that those notions are valid.

And through all of this, I am still not attacking Ingrid. Simply, what's right is right. Thank you.

Posted by: Chris | June 22, 2007 05:54 PM

You can get more flies with honey than with vinegar!

Posted by: Greer Ashton | June 22, 2007 05:55 PM

Maya, I honestly think Michael Moore can take it. This is just another creative way for PETA to get the mssage out about vegetarianism. The guy has a weight problem, and he's publicly talked about how much he loves to eat meat. There's nothing wrong with putting two and two together here.

Posted by: Jonesy | June 22, 2007 05:59 PM

On the Bill Mahr show Michael Moore admitted that while making this movie he did take a look at himself and realize he needed to take personal responsibility for his own health. He started to eat healthier and walk for exercise. By making these simple changes he started to lose weight. I hope he takes the challenge - for his own health and to lead by example.

Posted by: kk | June 22, 2007 05:59 PM

I saw Michael Moore talking about his new movie on Real Time with Bill Maher not too long ago. He said that he felt it was important to take personal responsibility for his own health (and obesity is a serious health issue) and he said he was eating more vegetables and had lost a lot of weight and was feeling healthier because of it. Here's hoping he goes the whole way and adopts a vegetarian diet.

I'd also like to point out that Ingrid's letter was very respectful. She points out that Mr. Moore is overweight, which is a fact, not an insult. Being overwieght is a serious health issue, and unlike genetic disorders or some other diseases, being overweight is usually caused by lifestyle choices like eating meat. It is one thing to make fun of someone for having small feet (something they can't help) and another to point out accurately that they are overweight (something they can help) and that their health would be improved by going vegetarian. Way to go Ingrid.

Posted by: Allen | June 22, 2007 06:00 PM

If Michael wants everyone to have free health care, why doesn't he spend someof HIS money and pay for a few families medical? Why doesn't everyone who wants FREE medical for everyone pay for a few families medical insurance and show the rest of us that they truely believe in what they are saying. The government is US in case everyone has forgotten. Give up meat and help some families pay for insurance Michael. It's the American way right?

Posted by: Tamie Cruse | June 22, 2007 06:02 PM

Ingrid,

You scared me for a minute. I thought youn were going to say that Micahel abused animals making the film. I think your idea is excellent!!!! Michael is my hero, politically, but wouldn't it be great if he went veg?

Posted by: Jane Lauter-Katoskie | June 22, 2007 06:03 PM

I think Ingrid's comments are out of line. There is definetly a more tactful way of suggesting a vegetarian lifestyle. She is a powerful woman in a powerfull postion. She represents many people and she should act accordingly. I have been a Veg for over 13 years and I am by no means skinny. Adopting a vegetarian lifestyle by no means guarantees complete physical health, although I agree that it is a huge step.
Ingrid is indeed burning bridges. Moore is an amazing filmmaker and is well respected (by most liberals anyway). Why is she personally attacking someone that could be a wonderful aid in spreading the word on animal right issues?

Posted by: Molly | June 22, 2007 06:04 PM

I agree, that the comment was a too harsh. Ingrid should apologize for being rude about her request to Michael Moore. I'm a supporter of PETA, but sometimes PETA gets rude and turns off people... they really need to work on that!

Posted by: Galy | June 22, 2007 06:04 PM

I love Michael Moore and sincerely hope that he first, adopts a healthier lifestyle (it's not just about what tastes good) and second, looks into the meat and dairy industry for his next doc! It would be awesome!

Posted by: Max Girouard | June 22, 2007 06:07 PM

Ingrid....I'm with you....good heath and health care starts AT HOME and taking care of yourself to help prevent ill-health and Michael Moore's personal health home is a mess. Guy needs to take a GOOD LOOK at himself...he surely LOOKS at everything else with a magnifying glass. Sometimes people like Michael Moore can't see what's right in front of them (or choose not to). This guy NOT only TALKS TOO MUCH, HE EATS TOO MUCH...maybe that's why he's got such a BIG MOUTH??? Bravo Ingrid for telling it LIKE IT IS!!! Mike P Ballston Lake, NY

Posted by: Mike Petrozello | June 22, 2007 06:07 PM

piggybacking on the elephant to get publicity are we? standing on the shoulders of giants are we? Well, why not acknowledge the person to whom you speak is indeed a person, a very accomplished person, and should be treated respectfully regardless of your opinion of fat people,-- that means no elementary school name calling, and definitely Michael is owed an apology. Just being vegetarian doesn't make you skinny. Fat is determined by many factors, and so is honesty (you don't have to be a comlete 3rd grade 'jerkface' ingrid to get your point across diplomatically and honestly).
This was one of the first times I've popped into the actual site from the listserve emails, and I think it has killed my taste for delving further. thanks, I will endeavor elsewhere.
And, no, I'm not fat, I'm skinny, which isn't determined by anything except my genetic code and my environmental stress; much as I would guess his weight could be attributed to.

Posted by: Andrea D | June 22, 2007 06:07 PM

Ingrid....I'm with you....good heath and health care starts AT HOME and taking care of yourself to help prevent ill-health and Michael Moore's personal health home is a mess. Guy needs to take a GOOD LOOK at himself...he surely LOOKS at everything else with a magnifying glass. Sometimes people like Michael Moore can't see what's right in front of them (or choose not to). This guy NOT only TALKS TOO MUCH, HE EATS TOO MUCH...maybe that's why he's got such a BIG MOUTH??? Bravo Ingrid for telling it LIKE IT IS!!! Mike P Ballston Lake, NY

Posted by: Mike Petrozello | June 22, 2007 06:07 PM

I agree with Ingrid 100% on the way she wrote to Michael Moore. Folks, when you deal with people that are so self centered and the world revolves around them you have to speak to them on their own level so they can understand.

Posted by: Deedee Casto | June 22, 2007 06:07 PM

A vegetarian lifestyle is certainly a healthier way of life, but it will not cure greed and corruption! Thanks to Michael Moore for shining a big light on this serious issue. I certainly hope he turns his attention to our food industry next time around and expose it's nasty secrets and atrocities!

Posted by: Karla | June 22, 2007 06:09 PM

I don't approve of calling people fat, having been there and heard all those insults. Not all meat eaters are overweight and unhealthy, and not all vegetarians are thin and healthy. Simply pointing out that a vegetarian diet is a good start to a healthier lifestyle, and a better health care system would have been better than name calling.

Posted by: tana nichols | June 22, 2007 06:10 PM

There are such things as FAT VEGETARIANS. Cheese is still consumed by meat-less people, and I have seen many a fat vegetarian. PETA always has a good message, but they always go to far.

Posted by: Anonymous | June 22, 2007 06:11 PM

AMEN

Ingrid has the cajones to say what EVERYONE is thinking!

Posted by: JJ | June 22, 2007 06:12 PM

I don't think Ingrid's remarks were out of bounds. Mr. Moore has doubtless heard many less kind and less well-intentioned remarks about his weight.

People do not become obese by accident, and meat eaters are much more likely to be obese. I work in the health care industry where I see that obese people and their attendant maladies place an enormous strain on local, national, and global resources. People act like obesity is equal to an ethnic classification and should be treated as such, when in fact it is not.

Posted by: Kristi | June 22, 2007 06:13 PM

I agree with Ingrid. Telling Michael Moore in any way but the way the letter stated would be like watching pigs fly. Well he certainly can put it out there for everyone in all kinds of language so now it turns around on him. I am overweight too. I see Ingrid's point. I should take more responsiblity for my own health plus I love animals. Michael Moore needs to put up or shut up.
Diane

Posted by: diane | June 22, 2007 06:13 PM

I love Michael Moore and his views that speak the truth about this nation, but I'm shocked that PETA (who I support dearly) decided to express their views this way. We are always told to contact people using taste and tactfullness, so I'm surprised that this wasn't handled in a better way. Not good.

Posted by: Jeanette | June 22, 2007 06:13 PM

I've got to say Ingrid Newkirk's tactic taken with Michael Moore is in poor taste (no pun) and makes me wonder where she gets off thinking she has the right to attack a bystander. With over 15 years of marketing strategy experience I can assure you, trying to connect and convince people of any stature to do the right thing will always be incredibly difficult if you start by insulting them (of course that's not rocket science, we learn that basic in kindergarten).

This guy is successful at letting the world know the emperor has no clothes -- don't we want him onboard to help PETA and their causes? Why is she trying to make any enemy out of someone with that much positive communicative clout?

Ms. Newkirk - Please be bigger than insults: Get off your high horse and concentrate on the productive stuff. It's not necessary to attack to win the battle.

Cynthia White

Posted by: Cynthia White | June 22, 2007 06:14 PM

If PETA would like Michael Moore to convert to Vegeterianism, insulting his weight is going the wrong way about it - I don't understand why Ingrid followed this approach? I agree with Noelle...this is the sort of guy you'd want on your side who could make a informative doco, exposing the cruelties and exploitations of the meat industries...more tact in the future plz! :o)

Posted by: LeeZee | June 22, 2007 06:14 PM

Yeah, very uncool. We need people like Michael Moore. In the sess pool of corporations and this shoddy Administration which are all set of screwing up the earth, he's one of the good guys. I just recently turned Vegetarian with a goal of going Vegan. I'm kind of tubby myself. So your approach should have been different. You can be vegetarian and have manners too.

Posted by: Lisa W. | June 22, 2007 06:15 PM

Ingrid: you just can't seem to figure out who the enemies are or which fights to fight. By attacking someone that is doing so much good, while we have the evil empire in the Executive Branch you've taken a serious misstep. So much for knowing who to tackle! Clearly, you need to think about it. Wow, what a load of good that does for your efforts!

Posted by: Jason Haynes | June 22, 2007 06:16 PM

They say "YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT" ... well, just look at this guy. He's FAT because he obviously consumes way too much of the WRONG foods. If he's so sincerely concerned with heath care, he needs to take a look at HIMSELF in a MIRROR and get some good heath care going at "home"!!! Thank you Ingrid for telling it like it is. Mike P

Posted by: Mike Petrozello | June 22, 2007 06:16 PM

I agree. It's not nice to blatantly attack someon efor the way they look. More importantly, it seems Ingrid didn't do her homework here. Michael Moore has recently lost at least 30 lbs, and is on his way to being much healthier.

I love PETA, but stuff like this disappoints me and turns off lots of would-be supporters.

Posted by: Keiva McCain | June 22, 2007 06:19 PM

Oh come on, Maya. Michael Moore dishes it out -- it certainly should be able to take it! And heaven knows, he's been no friend to animals all these many years.

Posted by: Jessica | June 22, 2007 06:19 PM

I agree with Maya and think Michael Moore is great and I agree too that we should all go veggie but calling him fat is the wrong approach. I know many of us vegetarians who could even lose a few pounds. Just a healthy overweight with a glow because sweets are so good.

Posted by: Kim | June 22, 2007 06:20 PM

This is the kind of approach that makes smart, thoughtful and balanced people reject and marginalize PETA.
As a member of the Vanguard Society, I am disappointed.

Posted by: Shanti | June 22, 2007 06:20 PM

Have to agree that calling him an 'elephant' when he is only trying to expose the poor health care system was a little much. I am also a PETA supporter and am usually always on the same side and in agreement but not this time. There was and still is a much more tactful way to get him the message. I have seen many overweight Vegetarians as well.
Please consider trying again.

Posted by: Larry | June 22, 2007 06:21 PM

I only wish his next documentary would be on factory farming and all of the animal abuse in this world. In one of his books he makes fun of vegetarians, so I"m not sure if he'll go for it. But you never know. I heard him in an interview saying he was eating lots of fruits and veggies and walking more since filming the documentary. Good for him!! But I would be estatic if he took this challenge. Thanks Ingrid for asking him!!

Posted by: Tanya | June 22, 2007 06:23 PM

I have seen Moore's film, and I think it's an eye-opener. Only wish it had touched on the worthlessness of animal research in finding "cures" for all the health problems out there. Our tax dollars down the proverbial big industry "rat hole," as it were. Maybe that's another movie.

Posted by: cag | June 22, 2007 06:23 PM

There are plenty of overweight vegetarians and vegans. I'm a HUGE supporter of PETA and this letter really turned me off. What a crappy way to get someone to think about a cause or change, by insulting their weight. I am really horrified at Ingrid's attack. I agree with the first poster. Sheesh.

Posted by: Bethany | June 22, 2007 06:24 PM

Thank you Ingrid for putting it to Michael Moore straight. It sounds harsh but the animals he ate have had it harsh as well. I agree with the blog that reads, "Michael Moore can take it". I'm a big fan of his and would LOVE nothing more than to personally help him along in his weight loss journey. Giving up animals in my diet made everything better for me, especially giving up dairy. I LOVE BEING VEGAN!

Posted by: Stephanie | June 22, 2007 06:24 PM

Ingrid,

Believe it or not, obesity can be an inherited physical trait. Some of us are genetically wired to be fat..Even vegetarians are not immune. I have been battling weight issues my entire 52 years on this earth.
I became a vegetarian after reading a Rolling Stone magazine article entitled "Meat Is Murder" in February of 1998. And guess what??? My conscience is clear but I am still very heavy! There are some chunky vegetarians out there , dear!

Posted by: KKC | June 22, 2007 06:25 PM

What a way for people to disregard PETA and it's views.

I am a supporter of PETA but reading that letter by Ingrid to Michael Moore, I shook my head and realized how people shrug off PETA.

PETA is trying to promote good by playing bad. Ingrid, it would have been more effective if you wrote with respect and concern as opposed to stomping your feet and acting quite unprofessionally.

When you push people up against a wall, they either retaliate or completely disregard your issue. Bravo.

Posted by: Tracey | June 22, 2007 06:25 PM

I say that in politics, all is fair. Michael Moore makes some strong statements and really mocks a lot of people, and, well, I think has to accept it in return. Don't feel bad for tweaking him.

Posted by: Brian | June 22, 2007 06:26 PM

I agree with Ingrid's creative spin to the axiom, "choices have consequences". She reminds us to look in the mirror, as real change begins from within. God bless all creatures great and small... including Mr. Moore.

Posted by: lisapizza | June 22, 2007 06:26 PM

WOW! For all you sensitive people I honestly believe Michael Moore can handle Ingrid's letter better than you guys. In all actuality he is quite an obnoxious person, for those of you who do not keep up with his work. I also believe Ingrid's idea is superb, but he would not be able to handle going vegetarian!!! It would be to much for him and his carnivore ways!! I say take the challenge Michael Moore and for all the sensitive people, get a grip!!!!!!

Posted by: Linda | June 22, 2007 06:26 PM

He has said he found these things called fruits and veggies on many shows now!!!

HE even said in order to lead by example and to become less reliant on the government’s shoddy healthcare system.

He's on the right track...so let's support THAT. He's lost at least 30 lbs. now, by the way. Not shown in that pic.

Posted by: Tori Mauricio | June 22, 2007 06:28 PM

Wow! "An elephant in the room, and it's you." Yikes. A bit harsh!

Although I agree with all Ingrid said in her letter, it could have been done with a little more style and grace (considering the issue is a little touchy). He's a powerful person, who I think could do alot for animal rights, and name calling isn't really the way to get him on our side.

A bit dissapointed on this one guys!

Posted by: Bridget Wickler | June 22, 2007 06:29 PM

Yes, he should try a more veg/healthier diet with excercise BUT Ingrid just proved some people's ideas about PETA by personally attacking Michael. i hear quite a bit that PETA is a bunch of crackpots,... Maybe he has a medical issue causing the weight gain? Maybe he is on a medication that causes weight gain. I was for years and 100 pounds later I am finally off the medications, and getting the weight off is not that easy because of other medical issues. Maybe if Ingrid apologized and went with a more sympathetic and understanding approach with Michael things would be more successful.
I agree that some issues need to be hit head on full force but this is not one of those. This is one that you need to sneak in the back door on.
Be positive and sickening sweet and I bet you will get further with him.

Posted by: Leslie | June 22, 2007 06:29 PM

Yes, PETA is known for cutting to the quick; yes, I think Michael Moore can take it. BUT I feel that diplomacy and tact may have gone farther to get the point across and to get Mr. Moore to take the vegetarian challenge.

Posted by: Marsha Buechner | June 22, 2007 06:29 PM

Excuse me but, who does Ingrid think she is??? I would understand her attack on Michael Moore if it had anything to do with abuse to animals, but her attack seems to be strictly personal to me. Attacking his weight? Come on, that's low. I thought PETA was People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals... what does this have to do with anything that Michael Moore has done with his life/career???

Posted by: freedommeanschoice | June 22, 2007 06:31 PM

I tend to agree with Maya. Affecting positive change is easier done with strong leadership and an adroit example.

Posted by: Lucas Heart | June 22, 2007 06:32 PM

I do not think that Ingrid's letter to Michael was necessary. A grown woman calling a grown man an elephant is not acceptable. How are overweight people ever going to be accepted with views and actions like these happening?

Posted by: Megan | June 22, 2007 06:33 PM

I may have missed something, but isn't this the very same Michael Moore whose last documentary depicted a woman savagely beating a poor suffering rabbitt to death in one of the sensationalistic elements of the film? What makes you think he'd have the compassion to make a film that helps PETA?

Posted by: MaryBeth | June 22, 2007 06:33 PM

Okay....Seriously.....how many knee replacements, heart valves, livers, bypass surgeries, angioplasty procedures, breathing problems, diabetes supplies and complications - not to mention all the medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol do you need to pay for before people with unhealthy lifestyles deal with their contributions to the failing and overindulged health care system?

And it is my business.

Posted by: Avery Imara Kennedy | June 22, 2007 06:34 PM

I am a huge fan of PETA and Moore. I am also an overweight Vegan(an illness), In Bill Maher he admits that his weight needed to change and to practice what he preaches, he took the first step by eating more fruits and veggies, I admire Ingrid for pushing him to take a step further. Though I am the same weight; my BP, strength and Cholesteral all have dropped, my doctor is very proud, I am sure the weight will fall soon.

Long Live Veggies!!!

Posted by: maggie | June 22, 2007 06:34 PM

While a vegetarian lifestyle is indeed healthier for people, animals & the planet as a whole it does not guarantee a slim physique.
As a long time supporter of PETA and a vegetarian of 16 years as well as a person who is overweight I think this statement is an unfair one as well as an uninformed one.

Posted by: kamala | June 22, 2007 06:34 PM

I agree with direct Ingrid's letter since hypocrisy cannot hide facts she and many vegetarian have experienced; nevertheless I am interested in Michael Moore's personal response.

Posted by: Ricardo Hill | June 22, 2007 06:35 PM

As a VanGuard Member of PETA, a long-time admirer of Ingrid Newkirk, and a vegetarian, I have to say I am offended and disappointed by the way this was handled. Attacking someone's weight is not the way to get them to go veg. Although Mr. Moore's weight may indeed be affected by his meat eating, it just as may NOT be affected. Not everyone's weight is reduced as a direct result of switching to a vegetarian diet - there are many, many factors that affect someone's weight other than what he or she chooses to eat. Don't get me wrong - OF COURSE I think everyone's health would improve as a result of being a vegetarian; but, that doesn't mean that excess weight automatically falls off when you stop eating meat, nor does it mean that all vegetarians are healthy. Michael Moore would be a strong, outspoken, influential person to have on PETA's side. I only hope that Ingrid's insensitive and unnecessary comments about his weight haven't put him on the defensive and taken focus away from the real issues on both sides: health care, people's accountability for their own health, and the wonderful health benefits of going-veg. It is not always necessary to start-off on such a hostile foot. Better luck next time, PETA.

Posted by: Pam | June 22, 2007 06:35 PM

He was recently featured on Good Morning America explaining that he was trying to lose weight and exercise. Perhaps y'all missed it...?

Posted by: Alex Brown | June 22, 2007 06:36 PM

I think you are a bit hard on Michael. He's done a lot of good for our country. In addition, I've known a few chubby vegans and vegetarians. Attacking someone because of their weight is cruel! We all can't be perfect 100% of the time. We can be socially conscious and try to do our best, but to levy harsh judgement on someone who could be your ally is not fair.

I think you would have been more effective to address him on a personal level rather than to attack him in a public forum. He's a person - not a corporation - at the end of the day. He is powerful, and I think he can be quite reasonable if you address him BY HIMSELF first. This is why I am occasionally upset with PETA - sometimes they act WITHOUT thinking and "running off at the mouth." If problems can be solved on a personal level first-hand, you will get better results!
Oh, and by the way, the elephants are insulted!

Posted by: CH | June 22, 2007 06:38 PM

I think it's a great letter!!! Why would stating the fact that he's overweight be a taboo? It's just like saying you have green eyes. And besides, I was a fat kid and honestly, I believe that if people are overweight it's because there's something they like about it and therefore don't want to change. He's not a victim of food. Ingrid is AMAZING. I truly admire her. People have to open their eyes and face the truth. The truth is heavy! And PETA knows how to show it. Thanks PETA. Vegans rock :)

Posted by: Andree Sophia | June 22, 2007 06:39 PM

I should have read the letter before posting. It is not nearly as bad as I had anticipated. This guy Jack is a jerk.

Posted by: Lucas | June 22, 2007 06:40 PM

I dig PETA, but I also agree with Maya.

Posted by: Dale Masten | June 22, 2007 06:40 PM

While I agree with Ingrid's message, it wasn't very tactful. What about the ethical treatment of people? I don't think Moore needed the redundant comment about his weight issue to be convinced going veggie is a healthier lifestyle. By the way, not all vegheads are skinny anyway!!! So why is that? LOL

Posted by: Beth | June 22, 2007 06:41 PM

Yes, its true personal responsibility! I find the delivery a bit mean spirited though. I am an overweight Vegan!

Posted by: joey | June 22, 2007 06:41 PM

He should feel bad about his weight -- We are too simpathetic to people that are overweight - we have no problem telling smokers they are "bad" -- yet people slowly kill themselves everyday and destroy my planet and health care system waste my tax dollars by eating meat and dairy, and we feel sorry for them -- most people are too weak to do the right thing and by shielding them from the truth is not helping - time for some tough love

Posted by: Johnny | June 22, 2007 06:42 PM

I don't think Michael made any personal attack on PETA or has any agenda against animal welfare. I think it was a bit too much to call him an elephant. I'd like to remind you all that there are fat vegetarians too? Will we get personal with them too. I think it would have been better if Michael would have been contacted politely and asked about the veg pledge. Probably would have worked better. If he had declined then PETA should have gone to war against him.

Posted by: Rohit | June 22, 2007 06:43 PM

Moore also mentioned on Amy Goodman's Democracy Now! that he has looked at himself and changed his eating and exercise. He has taken off weight. And I know many vegs that don't eat healthy, they just don't eat meat.

Posted by: katrina | June 22, 2007 06:46 PM

I agree that attacking Michael Moore's weight was unnecessary, insulting and may do PETA more harm than good. I would also like to say that I am a vegan who struggles with her weight. Going vegetarian or vegan doesn't automatically equal weight loss...I wish it did! This is a myth that needs to be corrected!

Posted by: SarahP | June 22, 2007 06:46 PM

I agree that the murder and slavery of other animals is terrible and should be stopped, but Michael Moore's film has nothing to do with that. It is about the US government's health care system and it should be commended. Michael Moore going veg would have nothing to do with the US health care system and relating his poor dietary choices to his film is not helpful at all because individuals going vegan will not change out terrible system at all. That is a subject for a different film; one which would be great if he made it! I think trying to convince him to go vegan is a good idea, but bringing his new film into it, or suggesting that it would be an alternative to a good health care system was a harmful decision.

Posted by: Taylor | June 22, 2007 06:46 PM

I think that vegetarians and vegans alike experience plenty of aggressive feedback from other people regarding our lifestyle and motivations, we can all agree on that. I believe attacking anybody in any manner will just further that negative vibe many already feel for 'us' and how will that help our cause? If we want compassion for ourselves and our issues we need to always be respectful and positive towards others. People can bring about change in this world without reacting like bullies on a playground.

Posted by: Heather | June 22, 2007 06:46 PM

Oddly enough, it seems to be OK to talk about someone being "too" thin, criticize their weight and speculate about their health, but calling someone fat and unhealthy is frowned upon. Go Ingrid!

Posted by: RB | June 22, 2007 06:48 PM

I thought this letter was harsh. As my beloved Mother used to say....you catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Suzie G.

Posted by: Suzie Glaser | June 22, 2007 06:49 PM

While I support PETA, I think that this "letter" for lack of a better word was so uncalled for. Mr. Moore has done so much for people by his exposing documentaries. I think that you are missing the fact that many of the diseases out there such as MS, Parkinson's, etc... are not created by the person who have them. They are the victims and by going veg- will not change the disase. As there have been many vegans and vegetarians diagnosed with these diseases. Often times the diseases are genetic or come from big businesses depleting and destroying our enviornment. Bacteria's not just on meat, but also on the vegetables we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe. By your letter you are giving insurance companies more reason to deny people from treatment- stating that it came from a self-causation. You are giving people against Mr. Moore more ammunition against him. I think the letter was self-serving and was so un-sympathetic to the millions of people out there that suffer from diseases that at the present time do not have cures. The people that have these diseases have to fight insurance companies for much needed medications and treatments. They have to fight to get things they rightfully need. Diseases are expensive and often times the insurance companies and the drug companies make millions off of sick people. An example one needed drug costs $2,000 a month for a sick person, and a denial for the person needing it gets the insurance company a nice cozy bonus. You are more concerned about a vegetable and someome's weight than about people's lives and their daily struggles with chronic diseases. Give me a break. Your letter is minimilizing their struggles. I applaud Mr. Moore for his contributions and advocacy. I think the letter could have been better crafted and not have seemed so self-serving and so outrageously heartless. You should be ashamed of yourself! I completely agree with Maya! Maybe next time have some one read your letters before you send them, so they do not callously dismiss a cause that affects so many people and that needs a voice. I can guarantee by your "letter" you have created a great deal of animosity among people whom have been your supporters. I think you should apologize to Mr. Moore on your callous and heartless letter for the fact that it was meant to make a point and that you honestly did not mean to dismiss such an important cause. That you know about important causes just like PETA's important cause against animal crulety.

Posted by: Dionne Dupuis | June 22, 2007 06:49 PM

I don't think Ingrids' comments were to harsh for Mike. He is obviously a forward thinking comrade and able to take constructive criticism... He has lots of influence and dow(which helps in this meat eating, hostile to animal friendly diets society)and probably open to changing a few habits if it means raising awareness and compassion to the plight of animals which we all are after all

Posted by: george brown | June 22, 2007 06:50 PM

Yeah agree....didn't need to be so harsh, gosh, Ingrid represents a community that wants to be taken serious, not seen as arrogant and know-it-all, but a humble attitude and a love for people. The guy has done some great things, I am sure Ingrid isn't perfect, why pick on his weight. There are far better ways to approach people, and sometimes - a righteous anger is called for. I would like to be considered intelligent. therefor please represent us intelligently. Don'nt loose your passion and dont loose your focus - for all things in your life, including people.

Posted by: Amanda | June 22, 2007 06:51 PM

a many of you said, he needs to look at his own lifestyle and take the necessary steps to improve his health and yes i wish he would do a doc on the suffering of animals all over the world for human consumption and greed.

Posted by: debera | June 22, 2007 06:51 PM

I agree Mr. Moore needs a healthier lifestyle, most American's do. But using insults to prove you're point? Considering we are asking people to treat animals ethically and with respect, shouldn't we also try treating each other with that same respect? Insulting others just to prove you're point is a low blow and just makes us look like hypocrits.I expected better from PETA, especially since they are representing not just their hired employees, but all who have joined PETA.

Posted by: Val | June 22, 2007 06:52 PM

Good for you Ingrid! I think fast foods and unhealthy food choices should be taxed at the cash register - the same as cigarettes! Why should people who make healthy choices subsidize people making insane eating choices who whine about their weight?!

Don't apologize. You're right!!

Posted by: Diane Kirkland | June 22, 2007 06:52 PM

I've got to admit, Ingrid though your time here with us is a gift to all creatures, there is something to be said about delivery of the message. You are a leader, and therefore people will follow your example, and I hope along this formidable path, you do not lose the grace that we have seen you extend to all creatures, human beings included. Whatever his battles with weight are, the vegan diet can be addressed from a health perspective and not by throwing him under the bus.

Respect.

Posted by: Caerdyff8 | June 22, 2007 06:52 PM

MAYA... Michael Moore is fat, probably from stuffing too many cheese burgers and baby back ribs into his pie hole between his lefty in-your-face films. What should she have said? Metabolically challenged?? Yeah right.

Posted by: Dar | June 22, 2007 06:54 PM

I think Maya (the first poster) is right. "There’s an elephant in the room, and it is you" is a fat joke, and we need less of those, especially from public figures.

Posted by: DS | June 22, 2007 06:55 PM

"Taking personal responsibility for ones own health..." That's not a very socialist attitude. The government is here to make all our personal choices so we don't have to.

Posted by: bonzai | June 22, 2007 06:55 PM

Wow! If anyone from PETA were to send a letter to MIchael Moore It should have been to plead with him to please make his next movie about animal abuse and animal rights. He could have been a powerful voice for the animals. Guess that door has closed....

Posted by: Cindy | June 22, 2007 06:56 PM

While I applaud Ingrid for her work, I think attacking Michael Moore's weight as an "elephant in the room" when talking about health care reform is just another "creative way" to talk about becoming vegetarian, but one without tact. While adopting a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle has greatly increased the quality of life for many people, we all know vegans and vegetarians that exist on grilled cheese and salad, which is still not a healthy way to live.
Michael Moore's documentary is made to show the shortcomings of our government's health care system, not ways to lead a healthier and longer life.

Posted by: SR | June 22, 2007 07:00 PM

Well said Maya.

Posted by: freedommeanschoice | June 22, 2007 07:01 PM

mmm....Not very impressed by the letter. Attacking him on his weight is not right, especially the way she called him an elephant. It is true that he should watch out for his own health, but you can tell him without being a jerk about it. I'm sorry but being vegetarian does not guarantee you a slim body. I rarely eat meat and I appreciate people who don't eat meat at all, but to be honest,I've known vegetarians who were pretty fat because they would eat a lot of carbs.

Posted by: J | June 22, 2007 07:01 PM

BRAVO!

I am glad that you had the courage to raise the issue with Michael Moore and hope you continue...I can think of many more LARGER stars who would benefit

Posted by: wd hickman | June 22, 2007 07:02 PM

hmmmmmmmmmmm....i see why verbally attacking many is useful for PETA but this one seems a bit much to me...I think it is the juvenile wording that is offensive.
Afra

Posted by: AFRA | June 22, 2007 07:02 PM

Michael Moore might very well be looking for an answer to his weight problem. A lot of overweight people are. Besides, I'm sure he knows he's overweight and doesn't need to be reminded of it. While there's no reason to be nice to factory farmers and torture lab "scientists", there is plenty of reason to present vegetarianism as a normal, mainstream solution to our eating problems. A do it in a way that's...ah...appetizing.

Posted by: Martin Whitman | June 22, 2007 07:04 PM

I think this is only going to put Michael Moore on the defensive ... and this is someone who could have been a powerful ally to PETA. He's a fairly witty guy, so I think Ingrid had better suit up in some armour herself to shield herself from the personal attacks that are likely going to come her way. On the other hand, I support the beliefs of PETA and usually their methods ... but I can't see this one ending well.

Posted by: Spahrtygirl | June 22, 2007 07:04 PM

I agree with Maya also. The letter sounds harsh. But I would like to see a documentary from Moore exposing animal cruelty in the U.S. It would surely be amazing. But, I too would like to see Moore take on a vegetarian diet. If I xould have two wishes granted it would be fewer wars and more vegetarians.

Posted by: elle | June 22, 2007 07:06 PM

I agree with Maya.
We're all just humans - no one is perfect...why not help each other/not hurt each other. When I hear someone getting called names - it hurts me, too...like kicking him when he's down. He needs a lift up! That's just my opinion...to each their own.

Posted by: Cari | June 22, 2007 07:07 PM

i was trying to ask him to make a film about vivisection and biomedical research. i also told him to start by reading "free The Animals" I hope Ingrid didn't ruin this possibility
lselie

Posted by: leslie | June 22, 2007 07:08 PM

i was trying to ask him to make a film about vivisection and biomedical research. i also told him to start by reading "free The Animals" I hope Ingrid didn't ruin this possibility
lselie

Posted by: leslie | June 22, 2007 07:08 PM

I think what Ingrid said was perfect. Michael Moore isn't sensitive when delivering what he thinks is an important message. He is blunt and to the point. I think Moore can take it. Hopefully he takes it to heart!

Posted by: Arnold Freeman | June 22, 2007 07:08 PM

I too agree with Mayra. I think Ingrid missed the whole point of the documentary. Does everything have to be about becoming a vegetarian or animal mistreatment? This movie is not about either, it is about a government system that has major problems. I am glad PETA is around and am a supporter, but feel that this 'letter' was unnecesary. Let's keep the focus where it was meant to be.

Posted by: Rachel | June 22, 2007 07:08 PM

I feel that Ingrid was 100% justified with her comments. She was not disrespectful, she was truthful. When a person is fat- they know it! Michael Moore doesn't strike me as an overly sensitive individual....and I hope he is wise enough to take PETA's challenge and see how EASY being vegan (or vegetarian) is.

Posted by: Diana J. | June 22, 2007 07:09 PM

I'm a vegetarian, not a vegan. I generally support PETA's efforts, and I personally try to contribute to the welfare of animals. But PETA is just too heavy-handed sometimes. Michael Moore, through his films, has worked very hard to enlighten people and effect social change, and he does it in a very smart way--by entertaining people at the same time. I don't care if he's 500 pounds--he's a hero. It takes a lot of courage to speak out the way he does and to do the risky things that he does to make a point in his films. People should never be personally attacked, especially for things that it might be difficult for them to change or control. Losing weight is very difficult for most people, even after they've switched to a healthy diet. It is unfair to suggest that he is a hypocrite. This is similar to attacking Al Gore becuase he uses a lot of fossil fuels in his personal life. Al Gore's energy footprint could be 1000 times bigger than mine, but his impact on social change is astronomical compared to mine or to that of most people visiting this website. Let him have his lear jet flights--he travels around the world for a good cause. PETA needs to stop attacking people and needs to stop expecting all people to become vegans overnight. Change takes place slowly, and by attacking people and putting high demands on them you only alienate them and fail to effectively produce social change. These kinds of stunts make it very difficult for people to support PETA, and they diminish the respectabilty amd credibility of the organization. The animals deserve better advocacy that that, and that's who we're here for, for the animals.

Posted by: Paula Orlando | June 22, 2007 07:11 PM

Yeah I agree there comes a point. Michael Moore has done a lot to make people listen to what society needs. And yes he did say in several interviews that he is working on weight and looking at his own lifestyles. I am a vegetarian, but how does having my fingers cut off while cutting wood(part in the documentary)and having to choose between which finger to save( cost being 13,000 for one finger and 60,000 for the other. The man had no health insurance and could only afford the one finger that cost 12000) Now if he were Vegan would that had affected how he lost his fingers????? He wasn't killing animals either, he was wood working!!! Talk to Mr. Moore instead of being critical about his weight as we all have faults. Imagine the great documentary he could make about meat eaters, slaughter houses and being vegan healthier. Missed the point of the movie.Not everything is about being vegetarian or vegan! Maybe should have done a little homework b4 that letter.
This coming from someone with out health insurance!! I do not eat meat and I do get a cold here and there and have to pay over 100 dollars out of pocket to see a doctor, thats not including if I need medicine!

Posted by: Amie | June 22, 2007 07:12 PM

Wow. I am a passionate supporter of PETA and I almost always agree with their viewpoints (with the exception of the TNR position) but this made me feel sick. I don't believe you can win people over by insulting them. I too would LOVE to see Mr. Moore take on the issue of factory farming in one of his documentaries, but sadly I don't see that happening by making an enemy of him.

Posted by: Kealey Ruland | June 22, 2007 07:12 PM

I am so glad that he is taking the 30 Day Veg Pleadge! There are 2,000,000,000,000 steaks to not be made!

Posted by: Tessa | June 22, 2007 07:13 PM

From reading the posts, I thought Ingrid's letter was going to be incredibly insulting. I continued on to read it and I'm a bit confused as to why some see it as too harsh. It's not.
Michael Moore is self-depricating, obstinate, and rude to those he doesn't agree with. Capturing his attention with the word "elephant" isn't going to send him crying into his pillow.

Posted by: Patience CS | June 22, 2007 07:16 PM

IF MICHAEL MOORE CAN TELL THE TRUTH, WHY CAN'T PETA! IF HE WANTS TO MAKE MOORE MOVIES HE HAS TO LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO DO IT. SO GO VEGGIE MICHAEL!! YOU BE GLAD YOU DID!

Posted by: KELLY | June 22, 2007 07:17 PM

You lost me at "fat bearded dude". Really lame!

Posted by: Jeff | June 22, 2007 07:18 PM

You just called the man
a 'fat, bearded dude', what kind of school-yard crap is that? Is that what PETA has
degraded to? There are many
medical reasons why some people are large, and his
beard? Who cares if the guy has a beard, it's not Fox fur! This is a man who has dedicated his life to exposing corporate elitism, gun violence, animal cruelty, just to name a few.
He dosen't deserve those comments, or that harsh letter from Ms. Newkirk.

Posted by: andrew pejack | June 22, 2007 07:19 PM

As a staunch PETA supporter, I wish Ingrid would have taken a gentler approach with Mr. Moore and his plus size derriere et al. I'd hate to have people find just one more reason to criticize PETA for what some already perceive as abrasive and offensive behavior. I am constantly defending PETA, championing the organization for all its dedication to those poorest of victims;our earth's animals.
Please retract the insensitive comments to Mr. Moore and use a more tactful approach in wooing him over to the vegan side. Who knows...his next crusade could actually be one that helps PETA.

Posted by: Michele | June 22, 2007 07:20 PM

I am a big supporter of PETA and have been for years, but I think the first paragraph will make him not take the letter seriously. If you want people to listen to you, and consider your points, then insulting them will make all that go right out the window. Something more along the lines of "Michael, we encourage you to be as healthy as you can be, and going vegetarian could help you achieve that."...or something like that, would probably have helped him take the letter more seriously. I bet that now, he'll just be on the defensive, or at least I would, anyway. I just really don't like when PETA does things too harshly or unnecessarily harshly that makes PETA discredit themselves. I can't tell you how many times I've had to defend PETA (but NOT the animal rights movement) to other people.

Posted by: Lacey | June 22, 2007 07:21 PM

while i can see why it was he was challenged to the 30 day veg pledge i agree with maya. that was just plain rude. i'm not ashamed to admit that i have been a vegan for over four years now and i am still waht some would consider overweight. primarily eating unprocessed and organic foods and exercise hasn't really changed the fact. sorry guys, some of us were just meant to be larger! not saying that he's not overweight because he eats meat, he very well may be, but i think it is a gross assumption to make. sorry going veg or vegan will not always make you that much skinnier. healthier? yes. skinnier? not always.

Posted by: holly | June 22, 2007 07:24 PM

I agree with the idea od personal responsibility, however, I can not believe you would use such an insensitive word as "FAT". I believe people have the right snd the ability to choose what they eat. I choose not to eat dead anilmals, I wish everyone would too....but in America we have the freedom to choose....my view, unfornuately may not be theirs...but it is FREEDOM please use softer/kinder wording

Posted by: James Hammitt | June 22, 2007 07:26 PM

This is a good example of why I love PETA! Speak truth to power!

Posted by: KevinSeanO | June 22, 2007 07:32 PM

Since when has Michael Moore ever censored what he says to people, or been politically correct? Why should PETA treat him any differently than he treats others? PETA called him on the truth, something maybe Mr. Moose can respect and consider.

Posted by: Monica | June 22, 2007 07:32 PM

I never liked Mr. Moore's views too much. He's good at editing things to appear one way but he's just way too biased to be taken seriously. His stuff is pretty funny and entertaining, however.

Although calling someone an elephant wouldn't be the most effective way to convince another to use his voice for a good cause, personal responsibility is what the majority of everyone's problems boil down to.

It makes me sick that I'm paying for people to get medical attention (and education, and every other social service) when those people do nothing but kill innocent animals for their own gluttony (and then reproduce carelessly to multiply our problems)... but it's the government's responsibility to baby sit everyone. Right, Mike?

Posted by: Rob | June 22, 2007 07:32 PM

It would be great to see him look healthier. I think his documentaries and intentions are good and he is trying to help people make positive changes. I would love to see him do a documentary about animal issues. I was disappointed that Al Gore didn't even touch the subject in his film. In his interview with Bill Maher, Michael Moore said that he has "discovered these things called fruits and vegetables, which are amazing!" :)

The full interview can be seen on YouTube here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_QoffvYQpw

Posted by: Amalia | June 22, 2007 07:33 PM

I like what PETA's Ingrid Newkirk was trying to point out; far too many people try to make decisions on issues they do not model themselves. Even when they are dead right, on the issue. PETA is always getting the bad rap for going to far, most of the time that is wrong, in this case PETA's Ingrid Newkirk seemed to more about her; than what is good for PETA. Unless, it is a policy to act in this manner to get PETA attention of under developed and young minds over overall image of PETA and true animal rights. I hate that development in our society (especially to the extreme-The Internet).

I would hate to think that what Scott Dubya brings to the discussion is a true reflection of the cruption of what it could be. That is Mrs. Newkirk used her personal political believes to affect how she termed the letter. Even worse that PETA allows it; however, that is not what I believe was behind the mistake in terming the letter.

kk and others make great points about the letter.

Scott Dubya why bring politics into an non-politic issue-PETA's response to 'Sicko' and Michael Moore's weight issue? I see it as just trying to make political ground on a losing issue for your political party and nothing more. Should have at least been edited out by moderator.

Posted by: Jason 'Great White'-Shark | June 22, 2007 07:34 PM

I was very sorry to see Ingrid's personal attack on the messenger. There is too much of that going on & its perpetuation only serves to chill free speech & intimidate people--who are not "perfect"--from making any constructive criticism at all.

Posted by: Dave | June 22, 2007 07:36 PM

It sucks that Michael Moore doesn’t share the same views as PETA does, but that’s no reason for Ingrid Newkirk to address him so coarsely.

Posted by: Matthew | June 22, 2007 07:36 PM

It's not just eating animal products that can lead to poor health and overload the healthcare system, don't forget about all the sodas, sugar-drenched donuts, deserts and so many processed foods with all those chemicals that require a special dictionary to understand what exactly what one is putting into their body.

When out shopping just take a a minute to glance into the shopping carts of others who have a few extra pounds of weight on them. I'm often amazed at what the carts are loaded down with.

A bit of exercise isn't a bad idea either.

Posted by: Judith Watson | June 22, 2007 07:40 PM

As someone who has to rely on this country's shoddy health care system more than I'd like, I was a bit upset by this article. I realize that Ingrid was just pointing out one thing that could help Micheal Moore, but as a long time vegetarian who still has a host of health problems, I can say that my diet alone hasn't helped me to rely any less on the health care system. I do think that it can and does help a lot of people, but I felt that it was offered up here like a simple cure all that it simply is not.

Posted by: aimee | June 22, 2007 07:41 PM

While I don't like Michael Moore, I don't think that outright calling him an elephant was the best way to open him to the idea of going veg. I totally think he should, but I agree with Maya.

Posted by: Lindsay | June 22, 2007 07:41 PM

Whether or not a vegetarian diet would make individuals in a population more healthy than otherwise is irrelavant. Each and every one of us, no matter how healthy our lifestyle, eventually succumbs to health problems -- expensive ones at that.

Posted by: Mark Peterson | June 22, 2007 07:42 PM

I agree it's a bit harsh...HOWEVER, he deserves it. He deserves it because he has dissed vegetarianism before. He said something like "we need meat" or some other ridiculous comment. So much for being "progressive".

Posted by: Kristina C | June 22, 2007 07:45 PM

Michael Moore is from my hometown, Flint, Michigan. I served on the County Commission for a number of years and M. Moore would appear before us with strange requests; he was, so to speak, the village idiot. M. Moore's first movie was about the plight of the unemployed in Flint and environs, and as a part of that movie he watched as a strange old lady wrung the neck of a rabbit so that she could eat it. No agruments from M. Moore. But he loved filming that terrible event as he could highlight it to sell his stranger than fiction movie. He is a nut who is adored by Hollywood (more nuts) and the best we can do is ignore him. As to Ingrid's letter to M. Moore - GO GIRL!

Posted by: Nancy Trant | June 22, 2007 07:46 PM

Agreed. Michael should eat more salads and prevent his own need of the expensive health system.

Posted by: gr | June 22, 2007 07:48 PM

Oooh my gowd! Please Ingrid, this time I won't agree with you not even in a million years!
Thats an amazing guy, an example for a stupid nation. At least he is doing something for his country and for the ignorance in America!
Hes not a vegan, but he is a great guy and hes fighting againts the most powerful men in the world and is not afraid of doing it even having a family to protect! Let him do his bit...

Leave Michael alone, and support him instead of tryinh to hurt him.

Posted by: Mirella | June 22, 2007 07:48 PM

Michael Moore has done many wonderful things with his documentaries(even though he can been pretty full on with his opinions, statements & tactics). He can't address every issue in the world that needs to be addressed.
Instead of bagging what he hasn't done (going veg) applaud what he has done.

I personally, am vegetarian. I make a lot of people aware of animal testing & have spent a lot of time helping people make the right choices when it comes to non-animal testing products. I am organising a fundrasing event to raise funds to dig bores in Africa(because every 8 seconds a child dies as a result of a water borne disease). I don't push vegetarianism, does that make me a bad person & someone who should be put down?

I'd love the world to become vegetarian, but putting down good people who help the world in many other ways, I believe will not get you far.

I think he will take the insults well, but I wouldn't blame him if he told you where to go.

Insulting someone in the public eye to get what what you want, is just nasty. There are more positive ways to go...

Posted by: Amy Bradley | June 22, 2007 07:49 PM

I have my own issues with M. Moore. So all I have to say is if he can't take the heat he should get out of the kitchen!

Posted by: megan | June 22, 2007 07:50 PM

hate to say it because Ingrid is one of my heroes, but this was handled wrong. moore had the potential to be an ally. imagine if he did a film about meat!
ingrid, it's time to get out of the trees for another look at the forest.

Posted by: karin davies | June 22, 2007 07:50 PM

As a very overweight woman who IS a vegetarian, I feel that I can comment on Ingrid's letter to Michael Moore regarding his weight. She's right on the money! (no need to pardon the pun) So what if she's blunt??? Sometimes you have to be. Has anyone heard Mr. Moore speak? The man invented the word "blunt". Ms. Newkirk's advice is good advice and sometimes overweight people need to be reminded that being overweight ISN'T healthy. Believe it or not, like it or not, the truth of the matter is BEING OVERWEIGHT CAUSES ALL KINDS OF MEDICAL PROBLEMS FOR PEOPLE AND IN ANY COUNTRY, IT *IS* A DRAIN ON THE ECONOMY. For overweight people to be insulted by her comments (I wasn't, by the way), well, it's silly.

Lately, the fashion industry has been coming down hard on super skinny models, but at the same time, they have been very quiet about the overweight models who are being touted as Plus Size models. Give me a break! There's skinny, there's fat and there's healthy. Being skinny is not healthy and neither is being fat.

Mr. Moore should heed her advice and at least give it a try. Who knows? He may actually change his unhealthy ways and learn something in the process. Maybe he'll even make a movie about it.

My advice to Mr. Moore:

Mr. Moore, please try to get healthy. You are a very influential person these days. Use your celebrity to help people get healthy. Many people respect what you are doing. Try to eat a vegetarian or vegan diet. Just try it. You'll feel much better. I do.

Posted by: Anne Marie | June 22, 2007 07:53 PM

Thanks Ingrid, you probably saved his life, and made others aware what the real issues are, and by so doing saved many more lives. Intelligent people will pick up on the challenge, Micheal Moore is a most intelligent induvidual, who's fallen into a bad habit like most of us, a habit that usually goes right back to childhood. I myself have to battle to refrain from eating meat, an aquired taste, and when the smell of it on a barbeque wafts through the air, the brain just cries out, and of course smell is one of the oldest memories. It's as tough and as bad as quiting smoking. Every time I feel like eating meat, I now picture the cruesome factory farms and the suffering of animals. When I quit smoking I remembered my little girl begging me to quit. If it's health of the body and or the soul it's all worth it, I always hoped that MIcheal Moore raise that other side of his conciousness, he certainly has a great social concience and is a gold nugget among pennies. I wish he would come over and make a doc, on that which is killing America, not just the body but it's soul, if we can't do it as an animal loving nation, what hope is there for them in the rest of the world.

Posted by: JasminHorst Seiler | June 22, 2007 07:55 PM

It seems that it is going to take all of us to bring about the change we all want to see.. and much of Michael's work is a potent message which is reaching many people in the overconsumptive mainstream.
And while he himself has been criticized for being too harsh, could it be that those calling for compassion for all beings might serve that cause best by refraining from using unkind or derisive remarks?
There are many ways to say somethng,
and words can obviously hurt as well as heal. Personal attacks often alienate
those who could be joining forces.
The viable challenge is enough in itself
- Perhaps the 'Elephant in the room'
is to see ourselves in others always- letting kindness guide us.. so that we do no harm, and thereby lead by example. Would Gandhi be disappointed?
Love to see Michael follow in Howard Lyman's footsteps, go total veg and get healthy, then take on the meat/ dairy industry beast in his next film!
He did admit to eating fruits and veggies and walking everyday, recently on Democracy Now. Perhaps if Ingrid were now to encourage..

Posted by: rb | June 22, 2007 07:58 PM

I am all for the ethical treatment of animals, and I always will be. I am not only a supporter, I am also an activist, similar to Ingrid, whose opinions I generally respect. However, with that said, it is attempts like this that give organizations like PETA a bad name. Michael Moore is not presenting SICKO to the nation as an attempt to reform the lifestyles and unhealthy habits of Americans, he is simply putting personal stories, statistics, facts, and of course, plenty of propaganda filled comedy together to present a viewpoint of the American health care system. Ingrid's letter is not only irrevelant to this movie, it is insulting. As a comedian and an intelligent human being, Michael Moore will take it lightheartedly, I'm sure, and he may even decide to take on the challenge(good for him), but to point out his obesity to the public (as if no one's done it before) is just no way to promote the ethical treatment of animals. If Michael Moore wanted to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, he is perfectly capable of doing do himself. Celebrities are just popular people, and to use them as a ploy to make your voice heard is just ridiculous. Informed, not accusatory, letters to legistators is definetely best way to voice your opinion.

Posted by: Britni | June 22, 2007 07:58 PM

We must always be polite and respectful to each other.

Posted by: Nicola Grobe | June 22, 2007 08:01 PM

I think whoever wrote the introduction before Ingrid's letter should please talk respectful. Calling someone fat has never been nice, appropriate or respectful. Please keep PETA's image to a high standard. I just became a member and I don't want to be ashamed of how a good organization is handling itself on its web site. One always does best to do best, don't you think?

Posted by: Suzy | June 22, 2007 08:02 PM

Michael Moore goes to this great length to get America's attention on health care and get picked at for being fat? Man, it must be the children's hour.

Posted by: Colleen | June 22, 2007 08:03 PM

If Michael Moore is receptive to Ingrid's letter, not only will he lose weight...but perhaps he can make a movie about FACTORY FARMS!!

Posted by: Brenda | June 22, 2007 08:03 PM

Apologize to him? He is a slug. He would do good just to give himself a bath a shave and a haircut. He won't take the challenge.

Posted by: Jackie | June 22, 2007 08:03 PM

If Michael Moore is receptive to Ingrid's letter, not only will he lose weight...but perhaps he can make a movie about FACTORY FARMS!!

Posted by: Brenda | June 22, 2007 08:04 PM

I also think that the approach used was a bit over the top. As a fellow vegetarian (who could stand to lose a few pounds), criticizing his weight was not needed. Just ask him to consider changing his eating habits, something he has already started doing. A couple of weeks ago I saw on interview with him where he indicated that he HAS been changing his diet, and looked to have lost a few pounds. He did not say he had gone veggie, but joked about "discovering" fruit and vegetables. The author of the above could also have used "overweight" or "obese" instead of "fat" when describing Moore. He does good work, regardless of what he eats.

Posted by: JPT | June 22, 2007 08:06 PM

I have to agree with some. It is a bit confrontative and if you want someone to play ball with you, there are better approaches.

As well, he could be a great ally in creating a documentary on animal issues. But now he is not likely to.

Ingrid, is right about someone who abuses their health and then points fingers at the healthcare system. A little hyprocracy.

Posted by: bk | June 22, 2007 08:08 PM

I'm not sure attacking the man personally will get your message SENT. It will be HEARD because the public loves trash talk (look at Rosie & Donald...).

Michael wasn't using the movie to talk about HIS health or even how to maintain health. He's admitted he's overweight and will be taking steps to work on it.

Talking about Healthcare is one thing - Talking about Heath try how many diabetics are thin people who eat things corn based, potato-based, meaty beans, pastas, breads, and many soy-based items that are high in carbs - you can weigh 120 and have health issues. THEN you need health care. Do you know how much testers, test strips, insulins (often more than one), and side effect medications are?

If you are attacking health choices you should consider suggesting that people walk more, eat in moderation, etc -This letter would have been better after "Supersize Me"

I think defending my choices in a kind way gets my message through and keeps it there. I agree with Maya, suggesting a change in lifestyle would have been a better approach. I don't think Michael's losing sleep - but you make vegetarian's sound defensive & mean instead of the soul loving people I know most of them to be.

Posted by: Christine | June 22, 2007 08:11 PM

This letter hits that inevitable nail again like it or not. Moore ought to take the advise if he feels strongly about his work!

Posted by: Conner | June 22, 2007 08:11 PM

Dear Ingrid,

As much as I agree with you regarding a healthy and compassionate vegetarian lifestyle, your words to Mr. Moore were completely disrespectful. You would have accomplished much more by leaving your "elephant" comment out. How do you think this will help our cause? Compassionate living and compassionate speaking should be a mutual part of our lifestyle. Yes, we must be forthcoming about our ethics, but there is never an excuse to be so insulting. I think you should write an apology to Mr.Moore as you were completely inappropriate!! It doesn't help our cause and only hurts PETA's reputation to attack one who is a friend of "The People."

Respectfully Yours,
Janelle, A friend of PETA and of Michael Moore!

Posted by: Janelle | June 22, 2007 08:13 PM

At least he's making an effort to bring attention to a big flaw in our health care system. I give him credit for that. What he eats is no one's business but his own. I support most of what PETA is about but not all. I am not a vegetarian but I write my local representatives when you suggest it and do all I can to support you to the limits of my own personal lifestyle and beliefs.

Posted by: Robert W Murphy | June 22, 2007 08:14 PM

At least he's making an effort to bring attention to a big flaw in our health care system. I give him credit for that. What he eats is no one's business but his own. I support most of what PETA is about but not all. I am not a vegetarian but I write my local representatives when you suggest it and do all I can to support you to the limits of my own personal lifestyle and beliefs.

Posted by: Robert W Murphy | June 22, 2007 08:14 PM

We would have long had socialised med.if it was not for that darned fastfood industry that makes everybody obese.Only no-brainers eat that stuff made from cruelties to animals.A second generation Vegan, and old not sick.

Posted by: Anonymous | June 22, 2007 08:18 PM

What in the world does vegetarianism have to do with healthcare? Eating meat does not automatically make you unhealthy, nor does being vegetarian automatically make you healthy. Even if it did, you will still need regular physical exams, will get sick, injured, etc., and will thus still need HEALTHCARE. And enough already with regard to the vegetarian health argument. It is a major waste of time. Let's focus on the REASON we are vegan: the animals.

Posted by: Pam | June 22, 2007 08:19 PM

Honestly, I feel like this criticism is put out in a rude manner. Instead of politely pointing out the health benefits of the vegetarian lifestyle, this became a personal attack that feeds fat-shaming.

I'm not saying we shouldn't burn Michael Moore just because he's a liberal, but, wouldn't it be more appropriate to show this organizations compassion for animals, rather than feed personal attacks?

Posted by: Ashlyn | June 22, 2007 08:19 PM

I think michael moore is a cool dude who tells shows what reallity is? i think that is was a little mean calling him fat. I think she could of told him in a nicer way. Tellign someone they are fat can hurt them alot and make them depressed and make them eat more. Talking to someone about beign healthy is better then telling someone they are fat. If im skiiny does that mean i eat to little or what. Please i love to hear what you think. E-mail me at kris_dude12@hotmail.com

Posted by: Kris | June 22, 2007 08:19 PM

I would like to correct myself. Michael Moore may not consider himself a comedian at all. I, personally, think he's got as great sense of humor, but maybe he wouldn't agree. He has a long list of professions, and perhaps being a comedian is not among them.

Posted by: Britni | June 22, 2007 08:20 PM

I don't think it is nice to insult someone because of their weight. There really is no reason for it and detracts from the message. You can get fat from eating too much of the wrong foods whether they are meat or not.

This is the reason that society will not change dramatically for the better. We are too eager to tear each other down instead of tearing down the society that creates all this hatred and abuse.

Posted by: Jeff | June 22, 2007 08:22 PM

umm....i loved bowling for columbine but doesn't this one seem hypocritical?

Posted by: Brand. | June 22, 2007 08:24 PM

I agree that there was no need to directly address Mr. Moore's weight, and at the same time I agree that he probably won't be affected much by it.

The problem is that both Mr. Moore and PETA, more often than not, use negativity and self-rightousness as a way to get their message across. Personally, I'm tired of having to prove to people that I'm not that "pushy, better-than-though" vegetarian stereotype, and PETA doesn't help. Of course I agree with what PETA stands for, as I agree with what Mr. Moore stands for, however I think there are better ways to deliver the message.

Posted by: Tere | June 22, 2007 08:26 PM

This was just rude. Nothing more to add.

Posted by: Jody | June 22, 2007 08:30 PM

This is perfect coming from Ingrid, with no frills, no PC mollycoddling, makes complete sense, and of course flesh eaters will laugh their fat, diseased butts off.
Personal responsibility is unknown to mankind, and proof is the way the world is heading. Down the crapper.

Posted by: iva kimmelman | June 22, 2007 08:32 PM

Guys, it's great that you're looking out for Michael Moore's feelings, but I'm pretty sure he can take it.

This is a guy who makes his living through stirring up controversy. I think he'll still manage to get to sleep tonight despite the fact that PETA gave him diet advice.

And as far as PETA's concerned, the more people who hear about this will think about vegetarianism as a healthy option. Good for them.

Posted by: Geoff | June 22, 2007 08:32 PM

I would like to weigh in on the side of those who feel that insulting Michael Moore is counterproductive. It takes a lot of guts to do what he does, and I think it would be much more helpful to applaud his efforts and ask him if he would be willing to do a documentary on the meat packing industry. Ingrid Newkirk owes Mr. Moore an apology.

Posted by: Terry Carlin | June 22, 2007 08:33 PM

Yeah, I don't think calling Michael Moore an elephant is going to accomplish much. People - and especially people like Moore - don't like to listen to what you have to say when you start off by personally insulting them. Ingrid might get a lot further in trying to convince Moore of a vegetarian diet if she simply brought up the health benefits of it, and not directly said that he's fat and could use the weight loss.

Posted by: Kelly | June 22, 2007 08:35 PM

My 2 cents; Pissing people off or making them feel bad, is not the way I've learned to be effective. Fatso's(and I was huge before I went vegan) feel bad enough or they would not be sabotaging their own organs and making themselves feel like S_ _ T, which accompanies fatness.
Perhaps giving him the incedible gift of the most beautiful cookbook, Vegan World Fusion, or the new book by Dr. Caldwell Esseltyn Jr, Preventing and Reversing Heart Disease, or Dr. T. Colin Campbell's book, The China Study, or Dr. Neal Barnard's book, Preventing and Reversing Diabetes Through Nutrition, or his book, Braking the Food Seduction. Perhaps a baking book full of wonderful vegan baking recipes and some web sights that explain the connection between diet and disease(even though science and the biomedical industry want everyone to assume disease is genetic so the gene splicers can create organs for sale and have people never change their eating habits.
Who would listen to anyone insulting them? I'd be angry at the lack of compassion.
It's too easy to lash out given the horrors animal rights advovcates see, feel, smell, and refuse to ignore.
If anyone out there is a vegan chef, perhaps offer to cook for him for a month. Make him outrageously delicious food, let him feast with all his senses, loose weight, and become our freind, not our advesary. There are enough of those.

Posted by: Laura Slitt | June 22, 2007 08:37 PM

Thank you, Ingrid! Since I am a very healthy vegetarian who, because of my choice of diet has extra energy, gets regular exercise. I am tired of thinking that, as a responsible person, that my taxes will be sky-high to take care of people who choose the good life of the steak house.

Posted by: Catherine | June 22, 2007 08:37 PM

GO INGRID, GO!! GET BIG MIKE ON HIS KNEES!!

Posted by: charlie | June 22, 2007 08:38 PM

I agreed with Ingrid, sometimes it takes strong statements to wake you up. And Michael Moore sure needs a makeover inside and out otherwise he's going to be a victim of all that bad health care he filmed.

Posted by: Marie A. Hernandes | June 22, 2007 08:39 PM

This is why PETA turns people off. I believe that PETA is trying to do what is animal's best interests, but it is taken too far, and people are offended. This is not the way to educate people. When people are attacked like this, it sets a double standard, that we should respect all animal life, but the same doesn't hold true for humans. This was shameful.

Posted by: P | June 22, 2007 08:57 PM

good luck with that. michael moore couldn't give a shit about going vegan or even vegetarian. go see the film "manufacturing dissent" and you'll have a much better understanding of what motivates him.

Posted by: estrojenn | June 22, 2007 09:01 PM

I like Mr. Moore and I feel, although well meaning, could've message could've been nicer.