Hunting and killing wildlife has been a topic of discussion as far back as 1936 as it appears in George Orwell’s personal essay "Shooting An Elephant." Today, this topic is still a hot debate, specifically after the killing of Cecil the lion back in July by Dr. Walter James Palmer. In many cases, and the two I’ve mentioned in particular, the wildlife has not threatened its killer with attack, but rather the killing was motivated by reasons outside of the dangerous nature of these animals. Many of the wildlife that is hunted for sport are not dangerous by nature, but will attack if they feel threatened.
Elephants are some of the gentlest creatures by nature and have a diet that consists most entirely of vegetation. Sadly, less than 145,000 elephants exist in the world today because of excessive poaching and crime against wildlife. This number is down from 1 million elephants in only 40 years. Poaching involves the killing of an elephant and then taking the ivory from its tusks and turning it into jewelry. It’s a little bit dizzying when you think about this giant creature being hunted just to make some jewelry.
One organization that has gained huge ground in less than a year in the fight to save elephants is Ivory Ella. Ivory Ella is an online clothing and accessory store that was founded on April 18, 2015 and has gained a huge following in a very short amount of time. Here’s why they should be on your radar (and maybe your Christmas list!).
1. They send 10 percent of net profits to the Save the Elephants Organization.
Your money isn’t just being used to support this business, but to support a cause that is much bigger than yourself.
2. Their products are absolutely gorgeous.
Comfortable, practical, and appropriate as the weather starts getting colder, you can match these long sleeves (and soon, hoodies!) to almost any outfit (considering you can buy them in almost any color).
3. They’ve already managed to donate $165,000 to saving the elephants.
They’ve been around for less than a year. Take a second to think about that. In less than 365 days, this adorable and quality business has donated an immense amount of money to the cause. They are a force to be reckoned with.
4. They are more than just clothing.
Wooden cellphone cases, necklaces, and water bottles are among the other things that you can get to help save the elephants.
5. Elephants > Profits
Their business is constructed in such a way that puts the focus on saving the elephants, rather than making a profit. They truly care about these gentle giants and this is apparent in everything that they do.
6. They do giveaways on their Twitter!
Seriously, go follow them. Almost once a week they offer the chance for followers to enter a giveaway for one of their products (and sometimes, they offer a free drink from Starbucks!). Who doesn’t love the chance the win free things?
7. Elephants are CUTE.
Just look at these creatures and think about the awful fate that they are facing. It’s inhumane and unacceptable. Why not sport them on your clothing, knowing that you’ve helped save this adorable little face?
8. Extinctions mess with the ecosystem.
Every creature on Earth has a purpose. When whole species start going extinct, changes in the ecosystem begin to occur. How many more species do we have to lose before it collapses on itself?
9. They would be awesome to work for.
Quite a few of their employees are high school or college students. They believe strongly in building a company culture and do things like cookouts, stress-relieving activities, and dunk tanks! Who knows, maybe you could end up working for them out of college!
10. They make awesome gifts.
Need a gift to give for the holidays? Give something cute, comfy, AND meaningful. They even have men clothing!
11. Santa is coming!
You can be selfish and put this on your own list--it's helping a bigger cause AND making you happy! Also, it's November so basically that just means Christmas feels like it's tomorrow.
