Digital Social Hour: Episode Summary

Title: How One Squirrel United a Nation Against Injustice
Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Mark Longo
Release Date: December 8, 2024

Introduction and Background

In this compelling episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly invites Mark Longo, known as the "squirrel dad," to discuss the harrowing events that unfolded when government agencies raided his animal sanctuary. The episode delves into themes of government overreach, animal and human rights, and the resilience required to fight against systemic injustice.

The Government Raid: An Unexpected Ordeal

Mark Longo begins by recounting the shocking incident where nine armed individuals from multiple government agencies stormed his 350-acre farm in upstate New York. The raid, aimed at seizing two animals—a squirrel named Peanut and a raccoon named Fred—occurred three days before a major election, adding a surreal, almost cinematic quality to the experience.

Mark Longo (00:03): "It's like a movie. Your government just comes in and it's surreal. You know, nine people with weapons show up at your house for two small animals... being treated like you're a drug dealer."

The agents involved included the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the Department of Health, and local authorities from Shimung County, New York City, and New York State. Despite a 10-month investigation, Mark asserts that there was no legitimate reason for the intense scrutiny and aggressive actions taken against his sanctuary.

Mark Longo (02:01): "This was a target, man. This wasn't about two animals. This was an agenda."

Impact on Mark and His Sanctuary

The raid had a profound personal and professional impact on Mark and his family. They were detained in their own home for five hours, with authorities inspecting every corner, including Mark’s bathroom, raising questions about the legitimacy and intent behind the search warrant.

Mark Longo (03:10): "They tore apart my closet, my wife's closet, nothing else in the house."

Peanut, the famed squirrel, was killed during the raid, a loss that not only devastated Mark personally but also jeopardized the sanctuary's mission and public support.

Mark Longo (03:55): "This can't happen again. And that's what our fight is all about now."

Public and Media Reaction

The incident quickly gained international attention, prompting discussions about government overreach and the misuse of taxpayer funds. Influential figures, including Elon Musk and political leaders, weighed in, amplifying the narrative and uniting people across political divides.

Mark Longo (14:00): "The consensus was this hit everywhere. It went worldwide."

The Supreme Court even commented on the necessity for reforms in New York State, highlighting the severity and unusual nature of the raid.

Mark Longo (40:25): "The Supreme Court commented on this for reform in New York State for Peanut the squirrel. Supreme Court doesn't comment on anything commenting on my squirrel. That's how big this was."

Broader Implications: Government Overreach and Animal Rights

Mark emphasizes that the raid was not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of government misuse of power. He connects the treatment of his sanctuary to broader issues such as animal cruelty, homelessness, and inadequate support for vulnerable populations.

Mark Longo (13:33): "My area has a really bad homeless issue. Why are we not helping them?"

The episode underscores the disproportionate allocation of resources, questioning why significant funds were diverted to investigate a small number of animals while pressing social issues remained unaddressed.

Mark Longo (24:00): "You have to think bigger. We're spending [taxpayer money] to raid some guy's house in the middle of nowhere for a 10-month investigation."

Efforts to Recover and Move Forward

Despite the setback, Mark remains committed to continuing his mission. He discusses the challenges of rebuilding trust and securing funding to sustain the sanctuary, which houses over 350 animals, including 74 horses and 100 goats.

Mark Longo (18:08): "Our sanctuary needs 30 to 40 thousand a month."

Mark also addresses the exploitation of his story in the crypto world, where unauthorized entities used his narrative to generate significant profits without benefiting his sanctuary.

Mark Longo (33:06): "They took my story, my likeness, my own photo, and they're making hundreds of millions of dollars."

To counteract this, Mark and his team launched the "Justice for Peanut" movement, striving to reclaim their narrative and secure the necessary support to continue their work.

Mark Longo (36:55): "This is about my farm and my family. If I wanted a Ferrari, I would have joined the Peanut token scam."

Conclusion and Call to Action

Mark Longo passionately calls on listeners to support local farms and sanctuaries, emphasizing the critical role they play in animal welfare and community support. He encourages active involvement through volunteering, donations, and spreading awareness to prevent similar injustices.

Mark Longo (30:15): "Follow Peanut's Freedom Farm... volunteer or donate to support our mission."

The episode concludes with Mark reaffirming his dedication to his mission, honoring Peanut and Fred by continuing to advocate for animal and human rights.

Mark Longo (29:30): "I have a mission. I have a goal. My family does. And the mission is to continue in Peanut's legacy."

Notable Quotes

• Mark Longo (00:03): "It's like a movie. Your government just comes in and it's surreal..."
• Mark Longo (02:01): "This was a target, man. This wasn't about two animals. This was an agenda."
• Mark Longo (03:55): "This can't happen again. And that's what our fight is all about now."
• Mark Longo (14:00): "The consensus was this hit everywhere. It went worldwide."
• Mark Longo (40:25): "The Supreme Court commented on this for reform in New York State for Peanut the squirrel..."
• Mark Longo (18:08): "Our sanctuary needs 30 to 40 thousand a month."
• Mark Longo (33:06): "They took my story, my likeness, my own photo, and they're making hundreds of millions of dollars."
• Mark Longo (36:55): "This is about my farm and my family. If I wanted a Ferrari, I would have joined the Peanut token scam."
• Mark Longo (30:15): "Follow Peanut's Freedom Farm... volunteer or donate to support our mission."
• Mark Longo (29:30): "I have a mission. I have a goal. My family does. And the mission is to continue in Peanut's legacy."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Digital Social Hour offers a poignant look into Mark Longo’s struggle against what he perceives as unjust government action. It highlights the intersection of animal rights, personal resilience, and the importance of community support in the face of adversity. Mark's story serves as a powerful call to action for listeners to engage with and support local initiatives that protect both animals and vulnerable human populations.

Connect with Mark Longo and Support Peanut's Freedom Farm:

• Website: peanutsfreedomfarm.org
• Social Media: Follow @peanutsfreedomfarm on platforms like Instagram and Twitter
• Donations: Available through the website and approved fundraising channels

Thank you for tuning into Digital Social Hour. Stay informed, stay connected, and support the causes that matter.