GREENPEACE HAS GONE OVER TO THE DARK SIDE WITH THEIR ENDORSEMENT FOR THE SEALING INDUSTRY.

GREENPEACE HAS GONE OVER TO THE DARK SIDE WITH THEIR ENDORSEMENT FOR THE SEALING INDUSTRY.

Commentary by Captain Paul Watson

Greenpeace has now crossed the line with their endorsement of seal fur as "sustainable."

I initiated and led the first Greenpeace campaigns against sealing from 1975 until 1977. I really never thought I would see the day when Greenpeace would sell out to the sealing industry.

Jon Burgwald speaking for Greenpeace has announced that Greenpeace supports "sustainable" sealing.

There is no such thing. Seals are threatened by rapidly diminishing fish populations and pollution. Our Ocean is dying and Greenpeace seems to be in abject denial of this reality. We need seals to help maintain a healthy marine eco-system.

Greenpeace is now playing into the hands of the fur industry and the Canadian interest in marketing seal fur to China. The organization is now giving comfort to the seal butchers in supporting one of the most brutal and bloody mass massacres of wildlife on the planet.

As a co-founder of Greenpeace I feel sick and betrayed by this new policy flip-flop by Greenpeace.

How can any compassionate and caring person continue to support Greenpeace after this? What the hell are they thinking?

Greenpeace does not oppose the slaughter of pilot whales in the Faroes or the brutal massacre of dolphins in Taiji, Japan and now this. How long before Greenpeace endorses the illegal whaling operations by Japan which they still raise funds for campaigns that they never actually do? The last time a Greenpeace ship sailed to the Southern Ocean to defend whales was 2007 yet the money begging mail-outs continue to be churned out asking for donations to save the whales.

I have tried to hold my tongue over the last few years with regard to Greenpeace but this, this is a deceitful betrayal of what we created in the Seventies. They have simply spat in the face of their founders like myself, David Garrick and the late Robert Hunter with this shocking revelation that the Greenpeace Foundation is a pro-sealing organization.

We risked our lives to save seals from the clubs of the sealers. I was personally beaten by sealers and jailed for intervening against the seal slaughter. I was dragged through icy waters and across a blood soaked deck through a gauntlet of sealers on a sealing ship in 1977. They kicked and hit me with their clubs, spit on me and pushed my face into the blood and the gore and Greenpeace exploited those images to raise funds at the time and now they dismiss that sacrifice and the hard work and dangerous risks taken by Greenpeacers back then without even the courtesy of an apology to us who carried their banner.

And now Greenpeace refers to seal fur as eco-friendly. Absolute and total bullshit. What next, an endorsement for Monsanto?

These people calling themselves Greenpeace today never took any risks for the seals, were never arrested, they have never even been to the ice floes to see the brutality with their own eyes.

This makes me both sad and extremely angry, betrayed and frustrated beyond measure.

Shame on you Greenpeace, this is unforgivable and a blatant revelation of just how far Greenpeace has drifted from its roots.

http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc-news/watch/wait-it-is-ok-to-wear-seal-skin-549602883956

www.seashepherd.org

Address to the National Assembly of France

Address to the National Assembly of France

By Pamela Anderson

Pourquoi le Foie Gras?

(Why Foie Gras?)

Pourquoi Cette Misére?

(Why Such Misery?)

In many national cultures there seems to be at least one cruel tradition that stands out as identifying that culture, be it the bullfight in Spain, the eating of dogs in Korea, the slaughter of dolphins and whales by Japan or the bloody and obscene massacre of seals in my own native Canada.

In 1977 Brigitte Bardot came to Canada to focus international attention upon the baby seal slaughter. I was 10 years old at the time yet she inspired me to actively oppose the cruel clubbing of seal pups and to recognize that animals must have a right to not be cruelly abused by humans.

And now in honour of Brigitte Bardot, I as a Canadian, have come to France to voice my opposition to an industry that is equally as cruel as the baby seal massacre – the cruel treatment and slaughter of ducks and geese for another non-essential luxury product – fois gras!

Where Brigitte Bardot spoke for Canadians opposed to the slaughter of baby seals, I come before you to speak for French citizens opposed to the cruelty inflicted upon ducks and geese.

In France the primary cultural image of French cuisine is of the forced feeding and slaughter of some 80 million duck and geese every year.

As a Canadian I am ashamed of the brutal clubbing of baby seals and thus I have empathy for the many French citizens who also experience both shame and sadness at the misery suffered by these very sociable birds.

What is foie gras?

Some call it a delicacy and the premier traditional dish of French cuisine although it’s origin goes back to the cruel days of the Roman Empire and to Egypt to the days when the ruthlessness of humanity drove species to extinction and cruelty was the hallmark of barbaric cultures.

Today we need to evolve beyond barbarism and ignorance and to be blunt foie gras is simply a diseased liver and that disease is called hepatic steatosis or fat liver disease. What this means is that these animals are forced to suffer excruciating pain and diarrhea, inflammations and injures throughout their short lives until the day they are slaughtered.

What we see in the stores are sterile tins of a product all packaged neat and pretty, masking the reality of what is really inside.

On the outside we see pictures of beautiful, happy and contented ducks and geese walking about in in an idyllic rural environment that they have never experienced.

Inside the tin is the diseased liver of a once living creature that never spent a single day of happiness or contentment, a bird that should have been born to fly, to swim and to nest with a mate but instead was forced to endure misery from birth to death every single day of its life.

Those who eat this product simply deny the soul of these birds and in so doing they deny the merciless cruelty these birds are forced to endure. They are removed from the reality of the duck or the goose as a social, feeling, self-aware sentient being.

Born into captivity under dim industrial lights, derived of the sun, a place to swim, room to spread their wings and soft bed of grass to lie upon and instead forced to suffer steel and rubber tubes shoved down their throats, tearing internal tissues, causing infections and open sores, ruptured stomachs, living in cramped cages lying in their own feces and vomit, crawling with parasites and maggots and surrounded each day by the corpses of the birds that the daily forced potions of antibiotics failed to keep alive.

And all of this for the purpose of grotesquely enlarging their livers by intentionally inflicting a debilitating and painful infliction upon them sothat this obscenely filthy diseased organ can be marketed to the public as a symbol of French cuisine.

High in fat, riddled with antibiotics and oozing toxins, foie gras is not a natural food and certainly not a healthy food. It is simply a status product to be consumed by people who have chosen to disassociate themselves from the filth of the cages where the birds are born and subjected to months of agony in a human created hell where the moans and shrill cries of pain echo though dark buildings where the light of the sun never penetrates and where the stench of rotting carcasses permeates the air.

Dante himself could not have visualized a more demonic level of hell than that which humans have devised for the industrialized raising and slaughter of some 65billion animals each and every year and this includes the 80 million birds annually tortured and slaughtered in France for the production of diseased liver that poses as a cultural food.

Foie gras has been outlawed in India, Israel, Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Scandinavia, Great Britain and Ireland, Italy, Polandand other countries. It is banned in California. The bans are in place because citizens in these countries hold that foie gras is a cruel product that has no place in civilized society.

Article L214 of the French Rural Code designates animals as "sentientbeings" under the laws of France and states that "Any animal, being a sentient being, should be placed by its owner in conditions compatible with the biological requirements of its species."

What is the point of passing laws that allow for the cultural exemption of such laws based on the discrimination of a species due to the exploitation of that species for profit?

If the law recognizes that animals as sentient beings should be provided with the biological requirements of their species, how can the conditions utilized for foie gras production be held consistent with L214?

The French organization L214? has thoroughly documented and exposed the horrors of filth and misery that is the foundation of the foie gras industry. Over 80 Frenchanimal welfare and animal rights organizations including the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and Sea Shepherd have condemned the suffering and thousands of organizations worldwide including PETA, Mercy for Animals and my own foundation are campaigning against the production of a product considered to be both cruel to birds and unhealthy to humans

Historically France has blazed a path on many fronts for human rights, for freedom, for conservation and the environment. Now is the time to champion the rights ofanimals to be free of suffering.

I would like to respectfully request that France embrace the qualities of compassion, empathy and respect for the lives of animals. I would like to respectfully call for the abolition of an industry that profits from horrific misery and abuse to produce a product that is toxic to not just the bodies of those that consume it but is also toxic to the hearts and souls of all of humanity.

We need to strive towards a world that lives in harmonious interdependence with other species and to search for a way to remove the obscene veils of death and cruelty from all human cultures.

So in my name, in the name of Brigitte Bardot and on behalf of all animal advocates, I would like to call on the French deputies to abolish force-feeding and I call on the French people to no longer eat foie gras, a cruel luxury that is the cause of such gross suffering and agony for 80 millions birds every year.

Merci Beaucoup.

Foie Gras

Numéro - Pamela Anderson's exclusive interview

Icon of the cult 90s series Baywatch, Pamela Anderson is now using her celebrity to defend the planet and the animal kingdom. Numéro met up with her.

Through her foundation, which she launched at Cannes last year, Pamela Anderson is using her provocative charms to approach those in power and advance the causes she holds dear. She’s also just unveiled an astonishing collection of veggie shoes realized in partnership with French designer Amélie Pichard. Numéro talked to her about love, passion and activism.

Numéro: When did you decide to create the Pamela Anderson Foundation?

Pamela Anderson: I started preparing my foundation over ten years ago, but it’s become very active in the last two years, as I’ve begun to devote more time to what’s important for the planet, for vulnerable people and for animals. I’m a great connector and producer, and I seem to fall into the right hands always. Even if I’m a little bizarre. [Laughs.] I’m not afraid to take this into zones where no one has gone before. The aim is to support activists, people who have a cause. There’s also a tenure programme, which is artist driven. As for me, I’m travelling the world on my own dime, speaking to people who I know make a difference and who are able to make big, real, impactful choices. I won’t just sit around waiting for others to act.

What exactly are the foundation’s goals, and how do you intend to go about achieving them?

My foundation is evolving, and I’m evolving as an activist. I have intelligent, educated friends. I learn every day. My priority with the foundation is to get resources out to the people who are doing the hard work. The front lines. I recently became chair of the board of directors of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. It’s something I take extremely seriously. I think the Sea Shepherds are one of our saving graces. And I really encourage everyone to get on board.

You’re known for writing letters to politicians – Vladimir Putin, Barack Obama, the Danish Prime Minister and so on. What kind of reaction do you get?

I write every day. I write letters consistently to world leaders, activists, friends, lovers. People I admire. Letters are a lost art. It’s important to continue the fight on all levels. This is an effective way for me. And I can tell you that everyone always responds.

You also recently went to Russia to meet their minister for natural resources.

I’m just back from the Kremlin. Russia is my friend. I’ve had great success there. We’re working together on legislation to protect endangered species. Not only in Russia, but from other parts of the world too. Specifically to ban importation of any endangered species. They are doers, and I respect that.

You wrote on the foundation’s website that it “must be outspoken and brave ... in a provocative way.” What kind of provocation are we talking about here?

I believe that being provocative is the key to my success in every aspect of my life. I’m a pusher, a squeezer, I’m relentless with love, with science, with all that I am and all those I know. Yet I’m not ambitious or calculating. I listen – I take it all in. I resonate with almost everything. It’s a love affair with the planet and all its beings. Women are good at this. I was raised by amazing women. They taught me to use all I am to get the results I desire, but in a compassionate way that’s both humble and excitingly surprising.

I believe that you’ve also founded your own environmentally friendly companies.

I have a few. There’s pammieslife.com, which makes vegan footwear and other products out of recycled electronics and other materials: snow to surf, boots, beanies, blankets. It’s a sensual, cozy lifestyle brand. I have another vegan shoe company I’m involved with, in collaboration with Amélie Pichard. I also have a beauty-water company I’m part of. We are changing the recyclable bottles to a better, more earth-friendly biodegradable package. It’s evolving as I get involved.I have integrity as a brand. I’ve self funded both shoe companies. I can’t wait for others to catch up. Luckily, I think the time is now. We are getting an incredible response – vegan luxury brands!

What exactly does “vegan” imply for a shoe?

Vegan means absolutely no animal products – no animal skins, parts, or anything that might harm animals. It’s the only choice now. There’s no need for animals to be slaughtered for fashion or for food, or to be used for entertainment. It’s time to let those dark ages go. Never go to a sea aquarium, don’t go to zoos, stop eating meat, chicken, fish or any dairy products – you can save the world this way!

How would you describe your collection with Amélie Pichard?

The Amélie collection is very 90s inspired. But also inspired by our mutual lifestyles – beach resorts, boats, parties – a sexy compassionate artistic life. Amélie has used me as her muse in other collections, but this time it was a collaboration. It was very exciting for me. Every “celebrity” seems to have a clothing line, it’s kind of goofy, but I hope this isn’t comparable. I funded this so that people can have more non-animal pieces in their wardrobe. I also believe in supporting artists like Amélie, so this project has many benefits. 

I’m a pusher, a squeezer, I’m relentless with love, with science, with all that I am and all those I know. 

Your two sons are also activists I believe.

Both my boys have been very active their entire lives. They’ve given clean-water filters on surf trips with the charity Waves for Water. They’ve been to the Faroe Islands to raise awareness of the horrible slaughter of innocent pilot-whale families as a blood sport. I also have an adopted third son who is always with us. I’m so proud of him. He’s off on a mission to protect dolphins with one of the Sea Shepherd boats right now, as a volunteer. Both my boys have done internships in fashion and music. They’ve volunteered at wildlife centers with me cleaning cages, and feeding squirrels and hawks. It’s in them. And having infuences like Vivienne and my wild artist friends – David Lachapelle, Christian Rosa, Sam Simon – has given them a colourful taste of life. They’re creative academics, smart artists. I’m excited to see where life takes them.

What were your parents like?

My dad was a “bad boy,” my mom was bouncy blonde full of life, quick- witted and sarcastic. We had a joyful life. They were 18 and 19 when they had me, and are still together, more in love than ever. They’re voracious readers, but simple people.

What influence would you say they had on you?

Along with my grandparents, they taught me to be a good person, to protect the earth and have fun doing it. And that’s just what I am doing!

Where did your love for animals come from?

I’ve protected animals since I was very young. My father was a hunter, and I made him stop. I realized early on that information and words are very powerful. If it comes from your heart, it’s the most powerful, and that’s how you can make the most change.

Do you have animals at home?

I have two dogs right now. But that changes. We foster animals too.

Your private life has been constantly exposed in the tabloids, but I don’t think you could say we know the “true” Pamela Anderson. Are you a romantic, for instance?

I’m always in love, I’m always broken hearted. I don’t feel like a victim. Searching is the fun part – the dance, the mystery.

How would you define love?

For me love means loving without attachment – supporting each other’s dreams, selflessly, without ego. It’s difficult, it’s painful at times and it drives us mad. But that’s the blessing of being human. We don’t own anyone. I’m a wildflower, everyone knows that. I’m hard to tame. But I’m loyal and old-fashioned too. 

Is there a love of your life?

I’m not sure there’s a man who embodies that role for me yet. But my boys are my loves. My family too, and my dogs

What do you seek in a relationship? Are you still attracted by bad guys?

Everyone is good and bad. The bad is usually a shield for insecurity. Once there’s safety, the bad melts away. Then you just have to hope it’s still interesting. Love is not skin deep.

What would you say was the most romantic moment of your life?

My life is filled with romance. I romance myself. I love flowers and I don’t wait for others to shower me with affection. It’s okay to be alone. I write very romantic tales. I fantasize. I wonder who can handle me, then someone appears and says, “I can!” Even if it’s in a dream!

Right now you’re on the cover of the very last nude issue of Playboy [the January/February 2016 issue]. You and Playboy go back a long way. How important would you say Hugh Hefner and his magazine have been in your life? 

Mr. Hefner has been everything to me – I’m part of the Playboy DNA. This is my 15th American cover, and I’ve done hundreds worldwide. My very first cover was 26 years ago. It’s really hard to believe that so much time has passed.

And what about Baywatch, the series that made you a household star? What are your memories 20 years on?

Baywatch was my favourite job ever! Being on the beach every day with my dog, enjoying the sand and the ocean. I would have been there anyway. So to get paid too? I couldn’t believe my luck!

What happened to your famous red Baywatch bathing suit? Did you really sell it at auction to raise money for your foundation? 

I’m selling everything for my foundation! I don’t need a storage unit of things I’ll hardly wear or use. Time is of the essence. There are too many important organizations to support now. I think everyone should do it: eBay has a way for you to sell things and give to charity. And it’s recycling. I’m not a big consumer – I have too much already.

Interview by Thibaut Wychowanok - Photos by Vijat Mohindra

Pamela Anderson: Fearless Female Visionary.

photo: Emma Dunlavey

Pamela Anderson: Fearless Female Visionary.

Never underestimate the power of breasts, they can shutdown Instagram for one thing. And it’s probably fair to say that bouncing around in a bikini on the beach (in Baywatch), or as a Playboy bunny, definitely helped make Pamela Anderson’s breasts (and her), a powerful household name. Playing a provocatively prominent role in popular culture for over 20 years, she appears for a record-breaking 14th time on the cover of the former top-shelf magazine's last nude issue, shot by Ellen von Unwerth - yes, from its once hallowed status and probably a decade too late, it finally succumbed to the pressure of a world where nudity is just a free click away.

But behind the tabloid tales (dating the bad boys of rock), and inflated poster girl imagery, Anderson, 48, has always been a fearless female visionary - businesswoman, mother, author, actress, fashion designer, hardline vegan and passionate environmental and animal rights campaigner. We caught up with the modern-day pin up to talk inspirational icons, being an old soul, and her new vegan shoe collaboration with French designer Amélie Pichard.

Your first Playboy shoot was in 1989 and you’ve appeared on more of the magazine’s covers than any other model including the final nude issue for Jan / Feb 2016 (shot by Ellen von Unwerth) - I guess we can say you don’t have any regrets about posing for the magazine then?

I can already tell you have a twisted idea of what Playboy is all about. A little backwards and insulting but I’ll play along. No regrets. 

That endless stream of boobs and sex ended up making the magazine a tacky, parody of itself - as it now descends from the top shelf, what would you like to see for it in the future? Perhaps a more diverse representation of body types and female perspectives?

I don’t think that Playboy was tacky in its day. It just became hard to compete with the internet and a desensitised society – Playboy wasn’t risqué enough anymore? Just to be a little naughty isn’t enough these days when young kids are seeing explicit sex on their computers. Playboy was innocent, it was a lifestyle of beautiful girls and charming men. There is no such thing as the girl next door anymore, everyone wants to be famous and takes selfies. It’s a different time. We didn’t ask our managers to be in the magazine we asked our moms and most of us girls had never taken a photo professionally before Playboy. It had a very different feel. 

What are your recollections of those early years in Hollywood, living in a mansion in Bel Air with Hef and lots of Bunnies, what went on behind closed doors that you’re allowed to say, apart from the obvious?

I never lived in the Playboy mansion. We had a lot of parties there and movie screenings, played some backgammon, picnics at Easter and we all brought our kids up for an Easter egg hunt. 

And then came Baywatch in 1992 - life guards with huge boobs running in slow-mo, it was more sex on the beach than saving lives! Do you still own the red bathing suit? 

Baywatch had very sweet storylines, and it may have been kind of sexy but that was not what we were thinking about. I don’t remember anything salacious, it was a show on the beach. We wore one piece athletic style swimsuits. Yes I still have a few of them. 

Talking about your boobs is so 1999 now, but let’s talk about them anyway. Yours adorned many bedroom walls and pretty much had their own career - was it hard to move away from being typecast and reinvent your public image?

You seem obsessed with breasts, I have never been typecast. I have never tried to reinvent myself. It just happens as you get older. 

That vacuous plasticity that was associated with you is obviously very different to the real person you’ve unveiled in recent years - do you enjoy seeing the surprised reactions when people actually realise you can form a sentence, and that you watch culturally diverse art house films?

I don't pay attention to tabloids as you seem to do. I've read some hurtful things then just shut it all out. I learned quickly that it was out of my hands. I just wanted to be in love, raise my boys, be healthy and save animals. Most of what I do now is my Activism. I am the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, I have my own namesake foundation, and I’ve been knighted for my philanthropy. I work a lot with PETA, with Climate revolution, Cool Earth. I am building an extension of my foundation to protect activists. I’ve been working with PETA for over 20 years. From the very beginning - people just didn’t see that back then. 

We have changed and created animal welfare laws all over the world. I’ve spoken at Cambridge and Oxford University about the negative impact of the meat industry on the environment. 

I’ve always watched art house films. I love David Lynch, Jim Jarmusch (was an extra on VIP just to meet me), Quentin Tarantino's favourite TV show was Baywatch. He tried to cast me in a movie but I got too nervous and wouldn’t take the meeting. I love John Waters. All these indie cool kids coming up. Safdie Brothers met with me. Luke Guilford and I shot a short film - about a woman ageing, losing everything and joining a cult. I love Russ Meyers. Always have watched him, Fellini. And David LaChapelle and I have plans to do a film. 

“I actually think it’s much more in style now to be compassionate and conscious. I have a Vegan luxury brand. Compassion is sexy.” 

And what's your view on female empowerment now, away from your Playboy days - are you a feminist?

I don’t think I’m a feminist. I do care about the health and welfare of women and I work with the National Domestic Violence hot line. I’ve raised almost $200,000.00 for them in the last few years, it’s important to have somewhere to turn. 

Which other past/present female icons do you personally admire and why? 

I love Jane Fonda. I love her movies and her political points of view. How brave she was - and how misunderstood she was at times. I relate to that part. And - she is still gorgeous. 

I read that you once said ‘natural beauty takes about two hours in front of a mirror’ - so you’re not toning down the glamour then?

My Mom said this jokingly. I don’t wear a lot of makeup in my daily life. 

Do you think you’re growing older gracefully - do you look forward to the coming seasons of life, or are you afraid of losing youth like a lot of Hollywood stars who go under the knife? 

I love getting older. I have to say I’ve never felt beautiful. I’ve always felt it was my personality and self-deprecating ways. Un-alarmed people. I love my garden. My Jazz and blues. I’m an old soul. 

So from actress, model and pinup to activist, you set up your own foundation which protects human, animal and environmental rights - what drove you to start that?

I saw how good of a connector I was. My foundation gives to people on the front lines - protecting the rainforest, vulnerable people and animals and helps to protect delicate and complicated biospheres. If the oceans die - so does the planet - with everyone on it. It is urgent. It has to be on everyone's mind. 

A lot of the work you do within the foundation is artist driven, such as working with Ai Wei Wei, why are you particularly drawn to artists?

Artists are also drawn to me. I’m surrounded by them. David LaChapelle, Ed Ruscha, Richard Prince and Jeff Koons have all used me in their works. I love it. 

And you’ve also just released a line of leather-free footwear with French designer Amélie Pichard, inspired by veganism, bohemianism, sex symbols and the 90s - how did that collaboration come about? 

A friend of Amelie’s introduced us. I was asked to fund a vegan line of fun shoes. She’s used me as muse in the past and I was grateful finally someone was as interested as I was about creating an alternative to cruel animal fashion.

There’s still a stigma attached to vegan fashion as being associated with hippies and boho-types living in trees - but it’s actually meat-eating fur wearers who are really out of touch with saving the planet right?

I actually think it’s much more in style now to be compassionate and conscious. I have a Vegan luxury brand. Compassion is sexy. 

Your friend and photographer David LaChapelle shot the campaign for the collection - his hyper-sexed, provocative, theatrical and surrealistic aesthetic is so unique - how has your working relationship with him evolved over the years?

I’ve known David for 20 years. We love to shoot together. I trust him completely. I rarely look at photos I just like to do them. It drives him crazy. He said I’m the only one who never wants to see. 

David’s work is also rebellious and eccentric with an erotic energy, which fits with your past quite well, having being part of some of Hollywood’s wilder couples (Tommy Lee, Kid Rock etc) - have you calmed down more these days or is there still a little of the rebel in you? 

This interview is funny. I am rebellious as always. 

Are you an exhibitionist, do you like the attention?

I love attention and may be a bit of an exhibitionist. It’s like playing characters. I used to be quite shy until I realised no one with a brain really cares, or makes assumptions about others. I’m just going to live my life. Enjoying it. Like performance art - not hurting anyone. 

What about true love, have you found it now along with an inner peace? 

I'm always in love but I wouldn’t say I have inner peace. But searching is the fun part. I meditate, I write a lot. 

“I love attention and may be a bit of an exhibitionist. It’s like playing characters.” 

How has being a Mother changed you - do you think having your sons kept you in check and what kind of relationship do you have with them? 

I’m a good Mom. I have raised two beautiful boys. Having kids may have saved my life but I’m not as wild as you might think. I know how to compartmentalise my life. My boys are always #1. I’ve never had nannies. I raised my boys practically alone. I am so proud of us. Our family. 

And what’s a typical day like for you, where do you most like to be?

I live at the beach. I walk my dogs. I write letters to governments. I work. I travel. I go to museums. I’ve always wanted to be a docent. I know a lot about art and see that in my future and I’m sure I'll write a few books. 

Describe your home for me, are there Playboy covers framed on the walls? And what’s on your bedside table? 

No pictures of me in my house (accept a couple with my boys). No framed Playboy covers. I’ve kept nothing. I don’t do that. On my bedside table are a stack of books - Nin, Arenas, Bouvier, Neruda. Some garden roses. A feu de bois candle by Dyptique and my phone. My house is sustainable teak and white linen. My guest house is in the works. But I love construction. When it is done it will be the jewellery of the house. A floating glass tree house. 

Looking back at your life, who are your closest friends, the people who’ve stuck by you and you still see now?

I talk to my best friend from high school regularly. My friends are a close group of misfits, artists, acrobats. We have fun together. A lot of love. I never feel alone. 

You’ve said many times your public persona was like some kind of cartoon image - so who is the real Pamela Anderson, surprise me with something I don’t know about you?

I think that's what happens. Tabloid culture can be insensitive and mean. I never had consistent managers, agents/ publicists. I just closed my eyes to it all. The girl on Baywatch was me. They were my personal stories a lot of the time. CJ was Vegan. Ahead of her time. 

What journey are you on now, what’s your life motto going forward?

I have a lot left to do in life. I don’t think I’ve scratched the surface of what I’m capable of. I’ve taken a much more serious and effective role as an activist and will continue the fight till my dying day. 

By Kate Lawson http://www.inbedwith.com/en/iamafan_article/pamela-anderson-fearless-female-visionary

Miami

Some proceeds from your New Year’s Eve event in Miami went to the Pamela Anderson Foundation. The humane treatment of animals is the issue most people associate with you, but the foundation is interested in much more, including “defending human curiosity,” “freedom of information” and “education and justice for the vulnerable.” What issue (or issues) will be at the top of your list in 2016, and what potential solution will you be working on? 

I have recently been appointed 'Chair' of The Board of Directors of The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. I am taking very seriously. I am 100 % alligned with there views- it is a natural move. I am very honored. Top of our list-

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is fighting for whales in the U.S. courts, to put a permanent end to Japan’s illegal slaughter- as well as protecting the Vaquitas in Mexico -

I have plans early in the year to meet with many governments- Costa Rica, Turks and Cacoas- Mexico, The Phillipines, proposing more anti poaching efforts in sea sanctuaries all over the world. I have a few good charities I support. I prefer to help those on the front lines, of the real action. This includes helping activists. I am working on a tenure program that will be supported by artists. 

Among your concerns has been Haiti, working with Sean Penn’s organization. Have you been to Haiti? What do people need to know about the country, and what organization deserves their attention if they want to help?

I went to Haiti soon after the earthquake to help with food distribution in tent camps. I visited JPHRO in it's beginning stages.  I went back a few years later and I was very impressed at what they were able to achieve. This time I had brought with me- scientist Mike Hands of The Inga Foundation addressing - the deforestation issue. I an very concerned about the devestation of Mangroves and precious biospheres . JPHRO does great things. I've known Sean a long time - we've shared a few war stories.  He has my respect - he is a fighter - an intellectual. He cares. My friends include warriors like Vivienne Westwood and Captain Paul Watson.  I have tremendous appreciation for do-ers - straight shooters -from the soul with fearless determination. I would recommend supporting JPHRO. Sea Shepherd. PETA and highly recommend checking in with Climate Revolution. (Watch - read Vivienne's blogs) - Active Resistence. Our Religion should be honoring the world we inhabit with love and grace. 

Can you describe the most recent hands-on project you did – caring for an animal or otherwise – and what was the most memorable emotional or physical sensation your felt during or after that experience?

I was in Vladivostok, Russia and visited the Amur Leopard reintegration center - I was asked if I wanted to go for a ride in hopes of spotting a cat. But, not wanting to disturb her. I instead watched her on film - They named her 'Pamela'. They said she was not shy of the hidden cameras in the forest . She always found one to pose for. Amur Leopards are endangered. IFAW's Russian Council has been extremely effective. We must be very careful not to wipe out these important species. The world was not made for humans alone- of course we all respond to these magnificent beauties. But-

Even in the case of bees. They can survive without us- but we cannot without them. And- If the oceans die - we die. It's serious. 

Have your looks been an asset or a hurdle to overcome as you try to do such serious work? What is your favorite example of how looks helped you advance your work on an issue. 

Oh boy. I dont think I'm much of a looker. I'm more like a blonde blur-  who's leaving her mark. I love being a wild spirit. I have been blessed to be given such amazing creative oppertunities to do good in the world. What ever has brought me to this place. I take with a smile - and a thank you... 

I just want to do more. 

I’ve read that you’ve been communicating with Vladimir Putin lately via letters and intermediaries. What do you want from him, and how do assess his response?

Yes- 

He is a powerful man with a love if wildlife. He is someone who can make a real difference in the world -when it comes to Climate Change. And protecting Endangered Species. We have made progress with my meetings there- 

I challenged Russia with- 

Who will win the Earth race? 

There is no time left. I want to do my small part to care for the planet anyway I can. It's gotten me pretty far surprisingly - And I'm not shy about meeting anyone who I believe can help. 

Would you rule out a government position, diplomatic or otherwise, in the future? What area or role would be your dream job?

I'm doing exactly what I want to do every day. 

I work hard every day. This is my job. My foundation. And, squeezing in an indie film, art project, vegas show, play, write, or build my lifestyle brand of my favorite sustainable things for people and pets. And being a hands on mom to 2 teenage boys is the best and most rewarding work I've ever done. Especially,  seeing the empathy. It's a crucial part of life. Some people just don't care. We can't sit around and do nothing. 

You once attended a birthday party for Donald Trump? How is he being misunderstood (or isn’t he)? 

Was it his birthday?

It must have been a paid appearence a long time ago? I do remember meeting him. 

I care about climate change-  I can't say I agree with much I've heard so far from him, or many republicans.  I rarely watch the news. I listen to music ... I read more. But, seems everytime I turn the TV on. There he is. He is really good at manipulating the media. The media should be a bit more saavy. And - not play into it. 

As you know, Lolita is an orca that has spent the past 45 years at the Miami Seaquarium? Are there two sides to this issue? Do you have a solution? 

The only humane - side of this issue is to let her spend the rest of her days in a sea sanctuary. A large ocean pen - all sea aquariums must be shut down. Please never buy a ticket to an aquarium. All you have to do is

Tune into the disgraceful practices in Taaji Japan. This is where they capture dolphins for shows. Then slaughter their families - it is awful. Its barbaric. It's a thing of the past. People have to change. 

Of course, you have been in the news lately for your appearance in Playboy’s final nude issue. People are treating the transition as an inevitability in the age of naked selfies. What’s your take on this bit of history?

I think it's hard to compete with the explicitness of the internet. The 'girl next door' doesnt exist anymore. Everyone wants to be famous at all costs. How many 'likes' determines a kid's self worth? It's a dangerous playground. It means nothing. -

Playboy was very protective. 

It was a lifestyle of culture, gentleman and pretty girls. Times have changed. It isnt that simple anymore.  I'm so glad I was part of the age - (of the no retouching in the 90's) ... Flaws and all. Imperfections are sexy. And what is beauty? All shapes, sizes -  and hair colors. It's in the eye of the beholder. The original playboy catered - to that love- a celebration of women - a healthy, curvey or thin variety. I never saw anyone who looked like me back then. And,  visa versa. Girls were original. And, the naughtiness, the voyerism. It feels a bit numb these days. I'm hoping it's a phase. And we can get back to the fun of sexuality, sensuality and playfulness. 

Maybe they should have made me the 'new editor' ? I think Playboy has a very strong political voice. 

You turned Playboy down the first time they asked, and got sick during your first photo shoot? Can you talk about that experience?

I couldnt believe when they asked me the first few times. Then I called my mom. She said she'd do it. So I took my first plabe ride at 22 yrs old. 

I was so nervous. They got the cover in first roll of film. Oct/89

Before you agreed to this current pictorial, you talked to your boys (how old?).  What was that conversation like?

My boys are 18 (Dylan) and 19 (Brandon) now - they are the ones who let me know that Playboy wasnt doing nudes any more. Then the phone rang. It was Hefner asking me to pose again. The Last One. Ellen Von Unwerth shot it. How could I say no. My boys told me I must do it. They are very proud and protective of me. They have had their battles. But looking back now. They see what I was apart of. They Have their own Playboy Mansion stories now. They have been there since they were babies. And have grown to appreciate It - 

as - you can imagine.

PAMMIES

Pamela Anderson, ‘If You’re Not Vegan, You’re Old-Fashioned’

Baywatch alumnus and contemporary pin-up Pamela Anderson teamed up this year with french designer Amélie Pichard for a capsule collection of ’90s-inspired, vegan footwear. The two found creative compatibility in their mutual passion for animal-rights activism, while Pichard specifically cites Anderson as one of her most influential, long-time muses.

The exclusive collaboration aims to dismantle any negative stigmas associated with vegan fashion by fusing Anderson’s signature bombshell sexuality with a diverse range of leather-free shoes. A perfect marriage of style and substance, 10 percent of all proceeds will go to the PETA-approved Pamela Anderson Foundation. We recently caught up with Anderson and Pichard to discuss process, fast fashion and inspiration.by Justin Moran

How did you two decide to join forces for this collaboration?

Amélie Pichard: “A friend of Pamela’s discovered me on Instagram, we met and he presented my work to Pamela—A 2015 modern-day Cinderella story. My work and universe spoke to her; what she represents inspired me and she understood that. Her fight for important animal causes has moved me for a long time. It was always an area I wanted to investigate more and work on creating fashion with a different way of thinking.”

Pamela Anderson: “We met through a mutual friend [and] business acquaintance Jeremy. He was showing me some of her collections, inspired by me. I love how playful she is. I’ve always wanted to do a fun vegan line of shoes and she was excited about the challenge. I funded the project; I also believe in promoting young artists and Amélie is an artist.”

What was the collaborative design process like?

AP: “It is a one hundred percent Amélie Pichard x Pamela Anderson collection, although Pamela has always been my inspiration. Now was good timing to propose a collection entirely around Pamela with a good cause behind it and also a big challenge for me, [creating] animal free sexy shoes.”

PA: “I think it is the perfect mix. Fun, sexy, bold. Amélie is very chic—a gorgeous sense of style. I’ve learned a lot from her. I love French women. [They are] everything I would like to be. It’s funny, it seems to be a mutual appreciation. I’m not a fashion designer, though some celebrities claim to be. It is an art; it’s so much hard work; it is a gift and a curse to be a real designer; it’s blood and tears. For me this is a labor of love. To have more vegan options for people is a dream. [Amélie] is incredibly full of ideas—very creative and good at business. She deserves all the praise. I love watching strong women.”

How do you feel this collection actively fights fast fashion? 

AP: “My target is definitively to break down the fast fashion trend. My brand is a mix between artisanal and sexy, modern shoes. The girl who buys them know the quality is there, and she will wear my shoes with personality and confidence. For this vegan collection, we want to propose an introductory capsule collection—something very strong, easy-to-wear and for more than three months.”

What were some of the key inspirations for this collection?

AP: “I like playing with clichés, so for this collection I introduced a red metallic story, representing Pamela’s iconic red swimsuit [and] using some key words ‘Malibu,’ representing Baywatch and the city where Pamela lives. The [denim] theme is very ’90s and I saw lot of Pamela pictures in jeans; black because it’s the Parisian color; white because it’s [Pamela’s] favorite color and the Raffia embroidery is for her beach side and fascination for St. Tropez and Brigitte Bardot. The collection is a mix between natural beauty and plexi-sexy girl.”

PA: “The glitter bottoms look like a night out with friends and there is a ’90s element [with] the lucite—maybe a bit disco meets beach.”

Why was the vegan element important to you?

AP: “From the beginning of my label I, introduced leather-free materials each season, but the lining and sole were all still produced in leather. This collection with Pamela allowed me to research the vegan subject more in-depth. The propositions are very, very small; it was a big challenge for me to find breathable lining, for example. I am delighted that this collection received the label ‘Peta Approved.’ I dream of the day I’m able to make my entire brand animal free.”

PA: “There is no reason to take the lives of innocent animals for clothing, food or for entertainment. It is very important to protect every species. The world was not just made for humans. We’ll be sorry when we finally figure it all out and there is nothing left. I want to contribute to the solution.”

In terms of style, do you think there’s a stigma attached to vegan fashion

AP: “For a long time, it was stigmatized as something for ‘hippies’ only. Now it’s not just for ‘boho’ persons, but also the very fashionable population. I think the mentalities are changing step-by-step. Previously, vegan styles were a bit boring or with a cheap image. The thinking you need to have leather to produce a luxury product is over. The future is using new technical materials, which are just as expensive. My ideal would be to one day create my own green, sexy material with the Pamela Anderson Foundation and Pamela herself.”

PA: “If you’re not vegan, you’re old-fashioned. Everyone knows that being vegan is the simplest, most effective way to save the planet. The stigma is on the other foot now. Meat-eating, fur-wearers are out of touch.”                                                                                           

The Amélie Pichard x Pamela Anderson collection is available exclusively at Opening Ceremony