How to be an activist who creates real change | Carey Theil & Christine Dorchak | TEDxAlexanderPark

Each of us, even the most cynical politician, has a child inside who desperately wants to do something that is genuinely good. We all want to change the world. So we write letters, hold protests, wave our signs, and argue on social media - but nothing gets better. Thus we lose faith in democracy and convince ourselves that lasting change cannot be achieved. After two decades of fighting the multi-billion dollar greyhound gambling industry and winning, Christine Ann Dorchak and Carey Theil - founders of advocacy group GREY2K USA Worldwide - discovered three core lessons about successful activism. And, not only that, they saved the lives of thousands of dogs along the way. Christine Ann Dorchak and Carey Theil are the cofounders of greyhound protection group, GREY2K USA Worldwide. As a nonprofit entity, GREY2K works to end the cruelty of dog racing and fund greyhound rescue on a global basis. Before obtaining her law degree, Christine worked as Research Director for the New England Anti-Vivisection Society. Christine specializes in pari-mutuel law and has drafted laws to successfully prohibit dog racing in several states and countries. A long-distance runner all of her life, she has competed in seven Boston Marathons to date. Carey has been sourced in hundreds of news articles and testified in favor of stronger greyhound protection laws all across the United States. In his free time, Carey volunteers for various non-profit organizations and is a National Master in chess. Christine and Carey are the co-authors of the new book, Brooklyn Goes Home.
Christine Ann Dorchak and Carey Theil are the cofounders of greyhound protection group, GREY2K USA Worldwide. As a nonprofit entity, GREY2K works to end the cruelty of dog racing and fund greyhound rescue on a global basis. Before obtaining her law degree, Christine worked as Research Director for the New England Anti-Vivisection Society. Christine specializes in pari-mutuel law and has drafted laws to successfully prohibit dog racing in several states and countries. A long-distance runner all of her life, she has competed in seven Boston Marathons to date. Carey has been sourced in hundreds of news articles and testified in favor of stronger greyhound protection laws all across the United States. In his free time, Carey volunteers for various non-profit organizations and is a National Master in chess. Christine and Carey are the co-authors of the new book, Brooklyn Goes Home. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@brianmillerspeaks]

WHAT a story. Thank you for everything you’ve done for greyhounds and now activists around the world, present and generations into the future.

[@RebeccaJohnson-mk2jh]

Thankyou so much to you all for what you do🫶🫶🫶

[@claybaumung3737]

Brilliant. Those two are true heroes.

[@dongoldstein8974]

Thank you for your years of hard work here in Florida and your continuing efforts on behalf of greyhounds everywhere. We have been rescuing greyhounds for over 30 years and I'm glad to say that your activism has made our efforts mostly no longer needed. I joined you at many committee meetings and events in Tallahassee and learned from you the value of determination and perseverance. On behalf of the 60+ greyhounds we have adopted and fostered, THANK YOU!!!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks so much for believing in us, Don and thanks for your key role in ending dog racing in its biggest US state in 2018!

[@feliceschonfeld9947]

Here in Florida we embraced this movement and ended greyhound racing. We thank you for lighting the flame

[@PatrickBaga-r6s]

This is an incredible story about perseverance and tenacity! And it's a story about not being afraid to lose, over and over again. Because if you want to truly change the world, you will suffer defeats. But, amidst those defeats, you learn and grow and build support inside and outside the political process. And eventually, you WIN! In this case, greyhound dogs were the victors, but this is a successful model for anyone that wants to make a difference and is willing to play the requisite long game to do it.

[@meganlampa3293]

We're fighting to end greyhound racing in Australia. Thankyou for your encouragement 🎉❤

[@rochellesandell7802]

Keep the momentum going! End greyhound racing!

[@LP-hs6yz]

Thank you, Christine and Carey. You are loved.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@EmmaCoppock-t4w]

This is a fantastic story about two people who persevered through failures to save the lives of thousands of greyhounds!

[@valeriehowell9367]

Carey & Christine! Thank you so much for doing this TED! Marvelous presentation and of course I'm crying because for years I saw first hand how hard you worked for us here in Florida and across the U.S. to bring down this horrible industry. And now your doing it for the greyhounds around the world! Just the other day when someone noticed me reading your book, I was telling them how you two have and are continuing to literally change the world; it truly is possible!! Love you!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

You are so kind Valerie. Thanks for making a difference for the greyhounds in Florida!

[@katrollins627]

Thank You, Christine and Carey!!! Your amazing relentless and passionate work to help save as many greyhound lives and the goal to shut down ALL greyhound race tracks in our nation and across the world!! God bless you forever to keep up your awesome compassionate love and work with your Great Success--For the Love of Dogs!!❣❣❣❣❣❣❣❣❣❣

[@lada123]

Wonderful! These are two amazing individuals who have made such a positive impact.

[@itsprestonm]

Really great talk, Christine and Carey. Thankful for your work!

[@stephanies4545]

You both are incredibly adept at creating a clear message, strategizing and methodically executing. And now teaching others, incredible. Heroes!

[@carsonlaura]

Brilliant! You two are an inspiration to anybody who is trying to effect change for animals!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks so much, Connie. You led the way in Oregon!

[@shift-change]

THIS! This is what it's all about in terms of advocating for the things you believe in

[@lkipp588]

This is full of solid practical advice for all kinds of would-be activists. Thank you for helping clarify what you have done for all these years to help Brooklyn and the other greyhounds.

[@jennifer_leon]

What a fascinating and moving talk with priceless lessons on how to make a difference. Your shared story of defeat, resolve, and love for a grey named Brooklyn is inspiring and will continue to motivate change for generations to come. Thank you.

[@katrollins627]

Brooklyn's life is forever with purpose to continue saving the lives of these majestic dogs!! God has blessed Brooklyn's precious soul.🙏❤🙏

[@ana-maria.ignat-berget]

Every one of us have a child inside who still trusts us to make the right choices! Inspiring talk on doing just that.

[@helencameron6485]

Thank you for advocating for these marvelous, sweet dogs. I am a devotee of your organization. For those people who watched this TED talk, please consider purchasing Brooklyn Goes Home. I did. I share my life with an Italian Greyhound and know the wonder that is this breed. They are gentle and loving. Christine and Carey are modern day saints. Despite obstacle after obstacle, they persevered against all odds for a cause they knew was right. I have spent many years volunteering for animal shelters and am in awe of those people like Carey and Christine who advocate tirelessly for those who do not have the voices to speak for themselves. Thank you to the folks at TED Talks for having the wisdom and compassion to reach a broader audience.

[@OIPAInternational]

We're deeply grateful to Christine and Carey for their compassionate work to help greyhounds in need around the world. It's a privilege to collaborate with GREY 2 K USA. Here's to continued success! Hugs from OIPA - International Organization for Animal Protection

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for all you do to bring people and organizations together to help animals!

[@KathrynThomas-t2i]

What a great story and an amazing impact on the world! 🎉

[@briannormoyle5088]

What a remarkable story, Christine and Carey. Your spirit and tenacity to fight for these innocent and abused beings inspire us all. It is an honor and privilege for Lantern Publishing & Media to publish your book Brooklyn Goes Home.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for helping us share our story, Brian!

[@joshuabaxter507]

I like that they were almost strategic in how they approached the situation. Way more powerful than people just protesting on the streets

[@warrenyoung2029]

Excellent talk. Persistence and dedication can achieve so much. Well done Carey and Christine!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Warren, let's take on the cruelty of dog racing Down Under together!

[@laurabergan9329]

Great job!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much, Laura!

[@ana-maria.ignat-berget]

Oh my Gosh, when she asks: “Why don’t I become a lawyer?” 😂. Love it!

[@adelinehodge7905]

Thank you for all of your amazing work, Carey and Christine! So grateful for your tenacity on this important issue.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for all your hard work for the greyhounds in Colorado, Adeline!

[@lisaryan5197]

Inspiring and uplifting and a resounding YES to tenacity, a global and united approach and remaining focussed on the big picture and the many facets we all need to accommodate and champion as a global movement. With much respect and gratitude from the team at Animal Liberation in NSW Australia. We CAN and WILL do this!

[@mitchgoudreau7670]

You guys are what's needed in the world right now.

[@fidofriendlymagazine7194]

What a wonderful testament to the human spirit to fight for the voiceless. Our animal friends with their unconditional love continue to amaze us with their resilience. Carey and Christine are living their lives On Purpose and are exceptional role models for us all.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you to Susan and to everyone at Fid Friendly for such kind words!

[@johnsimpson7152]

Carey and Christine are passionate advocates for Greyhounds worldwide. Their work has essentially ended greyhound racing in the United States. Let their work inspire you. Hard things can be done when you simply take the first step.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for all your help and guidance, John!

[@rufusreed4896]

The story of Brooklyn, Carey, and Christine has completely changed my perspective of Greyhound racing. I voted against Amendment 13 in Florida but after reading about this harrowing tale highlighting humanity, I regret doing so. I highly recommend picking up Brooklyn Goes Home. What these two amazing people is changing the world and their impact will be felt for generations to come. ❤️

[@AngelightArc]

Definitely teared up when they spoke about Brooklyn joining their family. So amazing they could give him a beautiful and loving last few years.

[@rolandhalpern3128]

Christine and Carey nailed it. To "win" it takes persistence, determination and a relentless pursuit for justice. Far too many activists toss in the towel after a defeat, or several defeats, but that is exactly what the opposition is counting on. Protests and boycotts have their place, but it is only through the political process that laws get made. Watch this TED again for the message on how to be a great activist for animals, or for any cause you believe in.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Roland, you are such a great advocate for the animals. It has been our pleasure to work with you in Colorado.

[@elizabethbernard3135]

The part about persisting through failure really resonated with me. It’s easy to give up after a setback, but they turned their loss into motivation, which is a lesson we can all learn from.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@bencycaitlin]

It's heartbreaking to hear what those dogs went through, but what really stood out to me was how they used the law to create real change!

[@veganmeditations]

Y'all's work is just incredible - thank you for all that you do! Beautiful talk!

[@DennisTabella]

Christine and Carey, you have once again successfully demonstrated what advocacy combined with effective action can accomplish!!!

[@toddhooper6613]

Amazing video Christine. You and Carey continue to be an inspiration!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for your support and thanks for sharing the dream of ending dog racing!

[@LoriPasetti]

You guys are amazing! You have done so much for the greyhounds all over the world. I am sure Gina & Brooklyn are looking done with much pride and love. May God continue to bless you and your efforts to end this terrible torture of these gentle dogs.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Lori, thanks for all your support and for believing in us!

[@carlyberstani]

Oh I love this story so much!!! I adopted a greyhound from a shelter a few years ago and it was the best thing I ever did, they are such beautiful dogs!

[@LoriPasetti]

It is absolutely amazing all you guys have done for Greyhounds throughout the world. May God continue to bless you and your efforts. I know Gina & Brooklyn are so proud of you .

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Our sweet babies are always in our hearts. How we miss them!

[@JimMason-k1b]

Christine and Carey show and tell us how it's done. Defeating an industry that commercializes cruelty to animals takes careful planning, research, hard work and persistence. And these two did it all and won. So, animal rights activists, stop hand-wringing and get to work. Thanks, Christine and Carey, for your determination and vision. Your integrity and enthusiasm are a lesson for us all.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Jim, you inspired everything we do, thank you for your leadership!

[@Frostlite]

I feel like their approach could be a blueprint for other activist movements! Seriously clever and inspiring stuff.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@darwinp1839]

Christine and Carey’s talk is a marvelously inspirational story about how anyone can change the world.

[@kinsleyhawker]

This is amazing persistence, to get a law degree for that sole purpose is incredible

[@jessiesangster]

Loving the passion behind this cause!! Hopefully they can take this tenacity to other animal welfare issues, there are so many causes that need attention.

[@franchambers5430]

Through tears I write to thank you for sharing your amazing story. Your persistence, determination and love for these beings shines through with every nuance, every word. You provide us all with hope, persistence and determination to continue the fight worldwide to end this cruel industry, this exploitation of the beautiful, gentle greyhound.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Fran, thank you for all you do to help innocent hounds in Tasmania. They are so lucky to have your smarts and determination.

[@dahouseismyhouse]

This is so great, loved their approach and how much it shows that activism isn't just about protests and making noise but also making strategic moves that lead to tangible results.

[@jaykirkus3835]

This is an amazing story of tremendous strategy, perseverance and yes some luck! It is inspiring to hear how two people can achieve so much by keeping focused on what is important. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Jay, thank you for making our work possible and for all your years of service. You are a greyhound hero.

[@DebbieDanno]

Absolutely Amazing!!! Christine & Carey you guys ROCK!!! I went on this wild ride with you because of your sincerity in your love of the dogs! I never knew your story, how it started, but you have always been a strong force, that much I know! The fact that you gained the knowledge that allowed you to understand HOW the system worked. You kept going and found the right mix to change the tragedy of Racing...to end it for good! Tenacity, Persistence, Faith, and Your HARD WORK have made the world better for us All!!! We Thank YOU!!!!!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Debbie, thank you for your support all these years!

[@markwild9342]

Thank you Christine and Carey for all that you have done and continue to do, you serve as true inspiration to all of us, let's hope we can finally end this across the globe and with your story and inspiration I'm sure it is only a matter of time!!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Mark, your leadership in Tasmania is a game-changer for the greyhounds!

[@amymoloney5715]

Inspiring. Thank you. Your three points for successful activism are written in bold letters on my office wall!

[@miroslavhancinsky6111]

I really admire the persistence and dedication that went into this campaign. The fact that they kept fighting even after so many losses is inspiring. It shows that real change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen!!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Persistence is the key!

[@wzhen9391]

The global aspect of their work is impressive. It’s one thing to make change in your own country, but to influence practices worldwide takes the effort to another level.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for your kind words, let's keep fighting!

[@Josmith-x2h]

I was fortunate enough to meet Carey and Christine this year in Tasmania....amazing dedication to a horrific industry....as you said never give up, keep going, the fight is worth it....and yes the beginning of the end movement is happening in Australia - we have a few awesome Politicians here in Tassie and on the mainland who are supporting the end of racing.......time, with lots of people power and plenty of money is needed to fight this industry!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks, Jo. It is a pleasure to know you and to fight for the greyhounds together.

[@losangelesallianceforanima5431]

Carey Theil & Christine Dorchak are a power group. What an inspiring story!

[@LibardoTechnology]

What an amazing, inspirational story! Thank you. Thank you for reminding us that a small group of bright, determined, committed individuals can change the world!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

You words mean so much, thank you!

[@RobertaShields-d4e]

A remarkable story of commitment to a cause and a vision. I think there is a very good chance that these 15 minutes will actually help others achieve goals for good that now seem to them to be out of reach. As I listened to what I half expected to be just another well intentioned message from those with a good cause, I found myself listening intently and thinking, specifically by name, of people that I hoped would hear this talk and as a result then not give up after a few or even many disappointments. I can't wait to share it with them. I'm happy for Brooklyn, happy for the speakers and happy for all the dogs that their efforts have saved from the horrors of the dog tracks...happy too for all those fighting other battles who will gain strength from this story and the remarkable outcome achieved.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Roberta, thanks for watching our talk and thank you for all that you do to help animals!

[@icekunggamer]

This is amazing! It's like they single handedly shut down the whole industry

[@JaniceUehlein]

Christine and Carey - you are both a shining light in the darkness. Thank you for sharing your amazing story. You are truly an inspiration!

[@hollypearson4295]

Wow! That's one incredible story. Two kind individuals - determined but wet behind the ears - take on a rich and powerful industry and win!!! Thank you so much, Carey and Christine for moving mountains for the dogs. Here is a great lesson about carrying on, even when things look bleak; adjusting strategies and taking full advantage of any piece of luck that comes your way (like meeting a sympathetic politician). BRAVO!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Holly, you have been with us since Day 1, and we will never forget that. Thank you for your kind words.

[@dundermifflinthisiserin]

This means so much to so many people. Thank you for loving the greyhounds 🩷

[@judygreenfield6737]

What an inspiring Ted Talk. This is an entertaining tale of two "David" people standing against a "Goliath" industry that has exploited greyhounds for too long. It is truly amazing that, undaunted by failures, they learned from those failures and persevered....eventually spearheading the ban on dog racing in Florida. Realizing the way to affect change was through the legal system, Ms. Dorchak returned to school to become a lawyer! Remarkable.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for your beautiful comment, Judy, and thanks for all you do to help save greyhounds!

[@JDMumma]

WOW!!! Powerful journey and message. So great that they covered things that did not work, and not just the successes. Technically her dog's sacrificial action(s) in a way saved all those other dogs! Got me tearing up! 😢

[@JudyZatonski]

Excellent presentation - inspiring and as the saying goes 'If at first you don't succeed - try, try ,try again' - this video clearly demonstrates that 'dogged' determination and the right approach will win in the end! Congratulations Christine and Carey for all the hard work you have put in over the years to free these gentle dogs from imprisonment and exploitation and for championing their cause.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much Judy. Your beautiful photographs of rescued greyhounds say so much about the need to protect these gentle friends.

[@rebeccadcarl]

Man what an achievement!! I wish other countries would follow suit

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Together, we can realize change!

[@jenniferdettloff-carter4245]

Great story- very heart warming. Thanks for the reminder that it often takes longer than we might think to make important changes.

[@Vixensublime]

What a fantastic story and great lessons to those of us who do want to change the world for greyhounds Thank you for sharing your wisdom. You pulled at my heartstrings, too! ❤

[@eddysgarage]

I'm just completely in awe that these guys had the foresight and dedication to tackle such a long running issue. The time commitment alone is incredible let alone all the emotional labour that would have gone into it.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much. It has been a true Odyssey!

[@eddysgarage]

@@christineanndorchakesq.400 ive shared with everyone I know... well done

[@annalisabracco-k6u]

Such an amazing story!!

[@brandonfmathias]

The idea to make the tracks report on injuries and deaths was so clever!! Glad to hear it was the change up they needed.

[@kellydriscoll9940]

Well done! It brought tears to my eyes. Such a great presentation. Thank you for all your hard work!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks, KD!

[@local534]

Magnificent work. Thank you. We need to convince our politicians in Australia that racing greyhounds is completely unacceptable.

[@sighthoundharvey]

Christine and Carey - the brilliant team to end greyhound racing around the world. Be aware that money is also very very important to fight for the dogs or other animals. The support of donations, the support of other charities is extremely important. Thank you very much for all you do and please continue the hard work! For the greyhounds Greyhounds Rescue Belgium (Registered Charity)

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Harvey, you are a real greyhound champion!

[@rogerbrenton]

Thank you, heroes both! On behalf of so many dogs whose lives you've saved and suffering you've prevented, a thousand blessings on you.

[@EileenMarr-x3o]

Carey and Christine, you are wonderful examples of how we can all create positive change for animals through perseverance, grit and determination. Thank you for everything you’ve done for greyhounds and animals everywhere. You are a true inspiration!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much Eileen!

[@helentaylor1504]

I've read your book about Brooklyn and taking down the racing industry. A brilliant and beautiful book. I admire you two so much. They are still building tracks here in Australia. Please help our greyhounds here in OZ

[@paulbluepoint1472]

Greyhound 2k love you !!!!

[@zoezanders]

Love the approach to failing, especially the reframe on letting it fuel you, that's really good advice!

[@dianacartier6497]

What an inspiring talk Christine and Carey gave!!! Their unbelievable persistence and determination has done more to end the cruel "sport" of greyhound racing than anyone could have imagined at the outset. Best of all, they give 3 very practical and simple rules for winning for compassion against overwhelming moneyed interests. Brooklyn's legacy will live on, thanks to this modest but extraordinary couple who have fought and are fighting the good fight.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

I am so glad you knew our Brooklyn, Diana! Thanks for your kind tribute to him.

[@bluedefender2325]

Wow I think we can learn so much from the approach they took!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks for watching!

[@chiefyize]

God bless you for all the work you have done and stil do so save these wonderful beings!!

[@johngayton]

Great advice, it is all about perseverance!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thanks, I used to be called stubborn, but I like this word better for sure!

[@perfectbalancepilates4548]

Excellent TEDtalk! I recently read your book Brooklyn Goes Home. It is an inspiration in activism and purpose, and how to collaborate with other like minded people and organizations to move toward a common goal. ❤ Thank you both for staying focused on the greyhounds and not giving up!

[@leposunce6016]

I have so much respect for people like this who devote themselves to such massive social justice causes! Well done guys

[@kalestanslink]

Man what they said about Florida having more tracks than all of the US combined is crazy. Love that that was the second place they decided to take on!

[@janeencox4381]

❤ these people are the real deal. I was lucky enough to work with them in Mass as a volunteer. They are so courageous, caring, and tenacious. Well done! So worth the watch!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much, Janeen.

[@isa_well...]

Beautiful, this makes me so happy :) Thank you so much!

[@mariamoyser9076]

Christine and Carey have changed the course of history for greyhounds! An extraordinarily talented and dedicated team who never take their eyes off the goal of ending dog racing and freeing the hounds worldwide.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

The dream is coming true, Maria!

[@ThisIsMyGalaxy]

The focus on legislation was smart. Changing people’s minds is important, but without laws to back it up, it’s hard to make lasting change.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

I had worked at law firms from the time I was in college and I saw the strength of legal action and came to understand that the greyhounds needed a lawyer of their own! : )

[@nicolastsantos]

Wow great work guys 👏🏻👏🏻

[@dodgersfanextreme]

good people do good things, this is great people doing awesome things

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you for your ebullient comment! We hope to inspire others to take action on the issues they care about, and spark change. That will be the measure of our talk's success ...

[@ShawnConnors-l9u]

Great TEDx talk. We’re familiar with the work being done at Grey2K and will be forever grateful for your dedication to the abused Greyhounds, and your determined advocacy for them. Both of you are an inspiration, and we learned a lot about what real life advocacy is like and what it can accomplish by watching this excellent presentation.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much! Our goal is to encourage others to strive for for successful advocacy in their own lives, and we hope that our story of failing but persisting can help in that way.

[@TheresaBruner]

You both are so inspiring. We still have the last two tracks in America in WV. We will not give up. You won that battle in 2017 and the Gov. vetoed the bill to end it in WV. But you two never give up and inspire the rest of us to realize how to create change.

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you, Sis! Let's keep fighting together in Charleston!

[@RussColeman-l3w]

Wow, what great testimony to perseverance. Persisting through failure and letting failure fuel you - a great lesson. Thank you!

[@christineanndorchakesq.400]

Thank you so much, Russ. You are a great friend to us.

[@PyroPhoenix451]

You guys have done such amazing work! Proud to know you