In Loving Memory of Regan Russell — Who Laid Down Her Life for the Pigs. By Dr. Chapman Chen

As Jesus said, “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). On 19 June, five years ago, Regan Russell (1955–2020) laid down her life for the pigs—innocent beings bound for slaughter, treated by society as commodities but seen by her as precious lives. Just as Jesus was killed for denouncing the Temple-turned-butcher-shop as “a den of murderers” (Mark 11:17) and for disrupting its corrupt, lucrative commerce, Regan was struck down while defending the God-given rights of pigs in Canadian slaughterhouses.

Regan Russell was a compassionate and courageous Canadian who devoted her life to defending the voiceless. A longtime advocate for justice—human and animal alike—she was known for her gentle presence, quiet strength, and unwavering conviction. For over four decades, she stood against oppression in all forms, marching for civil rights, opposing animal cruelty, and living peacefully by the truth she held: that all beings deserve dignity and mercy.

On 19 June 2020, Regan was tragically killed at age 65 while bearing witness to pigs outside Fearmans slaughterhouse in Burlington, Ontario. She was part of Toronto Pig Save, offering water and love to the terrified animals in their final moments. As she approached a transport truck to give comfort to the pigs, the driver recklessly ran her over. He was later convicted of careless driving causing death.

Regan’s death came just days after Ontario passed Bill 156—a law designed to conceal the realities of animal agriculture from public view. In her final act, Regan stood against that secrecy with love and courage. She did not turn away from suffering. She walked toward it.

Her legacy endures in every act of kindness, every hand reaching out to the suffering, every voice that speaks truth in a world of silence. She reminds us that bearing witness is not just protest—it is love in its purest form.

Regan, you are not forgotten. Your Christly light continues in every rescued life, every awakened heart. Blessed are the peacemakers—for they shall be called the children of God. #VeganChrist #VeganGod #VeganTheology

Full text: https://www.vegantheology.net/post/in-loving-memory-of-regan-russell-who-laid-down-her-life-for-the-pigs-by-dr-chapman-chen