88th Academy Awards Commercial Exposes HSUS’ Fraudulent Fundraising Tactics

by
posted on February 29, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

During last night’s star-studded 88th Academy Awards, some of us tuned in just long enough to “star” gaze as Hollywood hit the red carpet. Others watched for the duration to root for their favorite flicks. Some like me just tuned in off and on to catch who scored an Oscar, hoping not to endure too many liberally-biased comments from recipients. So imagine how pleasantly surprised I was to see the commercial that aggressively attacked the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)—the animal rights extremist group that blatantly excretes deceptive fundraising tactics to cash in on the public’s misperception that donating to HSUS helps to shelter pets! 

Paid for by HumaneWatch.Org, a project of the Center for Consumer Freedom, the commercial blasted the HSUS for the fact that while 85 percent of animals used in HSUS fundraising appeals are of cats and dogs, only 1 percent of funds raised go to support local pet shelters! Just as shocking, look at what HumaneWatch uncovered from the group’s 2014 tax returns:

• $55 million was funneled into offshore accounts!
• $49 million was spent on salaries and pension plans!

"It’s outrageous that the Humane Society of the United States raises so much money off of dogs and cats and uses it to fund a political agenda that includes hunting and ammunition bans,” said Will Coggin, director of research at HumaneWatch.Org. “Friends don’t let friends give to HSUS—they make sure people know to give locally."

Clearly, things aren’t always what they seem! Click here to watch the ad.

Latest

LEDEACC Elite
LEDEACC Elite

MDT Expands ACC Elite Compatibility to Savage 110 Short Action and CZ 457 Platforms

MDT has expanded its ACC Elite chassis system, adding compatibility for the CZ 457 and Savage 110 short action platforms.

Looking for Hogs vs. Hunting Wild Boars

There is no right or wrong way to hunt hogs. But in the author’s opinion there are methods that are more rewarding than others if sporting challenge, and not merely eradication, is the goal.

New for 2026: Sightron Snap Focus Parallax Adjustment S6

Sightron has announced the Snap Focus" S6 10-60x56mm ED Mil Hash (MH) Field Target riflescopes. Available with or without magnetic focus wheel, the S6 field target scope is a premium choice for airgun, small caliber field target and benchrest shooters.

#SundayGunday: FN 15 Guardian

On this week's #SundayGunday, we have an AR-platform from one of the finest gunmakers in the world, perfect for hog hunters and home defenders alike. The FN 15 Guardian applies Fabrique Nationale's proven quality to an AR, yielding a gun that runs well through all conditions.  A 16-inch 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium steel barrel, qualifies the gun as a carbine, perfect for handling through the woods or in a ground blind. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

How do you Compare to the Average Hunter?

There is no “average” hunter, although don’t be surprised if you’re more run-of-the-mill than you think after seeing the results of the “2025 Hunting Industry Insights” report. The survey, conducted by Untamed Outdoor Agency (UOA), focused on what might be the most active demographic—sportsmen between the ages of 32 and 52.

Says You: Trail Camera Overkill?

Editor-in-Chief Scott Olmsted's monthly response column to questions posed by our members. This week, we're discussing mountain lions, poaching and trail camera use.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.