Short Takes
Monica Chen is the executive director of the New Roots Institute, which educates high school and college students on the impacts of factory farming and supports them as they become advocates for a just and sustainable food system.
CA: You’re focused on educating young people about factory farming. What have you found out about what works?
Chen: Effectively meeting students where they are means asking questions, listening, and leading with curiosity rather than judgment. Our fellows inspire their peers to think critically about the connections between industrial animal agriculture and key issues that affect all of us, like climate change, human rights, and public health. When students can explore their own perspectives and connect the topic to issues they already care about, we see deeper engagement and lasting interest.
Humor is essential, and our “Rotten Truth” series is a testament to that! Also, facts alone are not enough. Facts land best when they are clear, credible, and paired with visuals and stories that make them stick.
CA: Have you learned anything about what does not work?
Chen: Just talking about the problem is not empowering. Students need to see solutions at the individual, institutional, and systemic levels. Additionally, while young people can be incredibly capable and motivated, we have seen the greatest success when they are supported by older generations who share resources. It is not enough to say “let youth lead, it is all up to you.”
This Q&A, along with dozens more, is published in the special "Animals Issue" of Current Affairs.