An array of political ideas, environmental concepts and mind-probing conversations filled Stephens Auditorium Sunday night. More than 700 students attended “We The Planet,” a discussion presented by the ISU Lectures Committee and activist organization Circle of Life.

Julia Butterfly Hill, activist and founder of Circle of Life, acted as host throughout the evening. Hill shared her experiences from the last four years of traveling, including her quest to save the redwood forests in northern California. She explained how living in a redwood tree for two years helped her realize the circle perspective that would later frame the ideals of her organization.

“Each one of us is an expert in the place we sit in the circle,” she said. “We need to strive to see the perspective of each part.”

Hill continued to question our society’s emphasis on shunning the “alternatives,” which we should be embracing. Chemically processed foods, corporate advertising, designer clothes and TV were openly discussed.

Howard Liman, a fourth generation farmer turned vegan, came out and greeted the audience. Liman is most known for appearing on the Oprah Winfrey show to discuss the truths about meat processing. Shortly after his appearance on the show, the Texas Cattlemen’s Association sued both Liman and Winfrey for $180 million each. The Texas Cattlemen’s Association lost on the grounds that Liman was telling the truth.

In 1975, Liman was paralyzed from the waist down, due to a tumor on his spine. Liman said the tumor was caused by crop chemicals being sprayed on his farm. Liman said he actively supports organic farming.

“This is what I have to say about the FDA,” Liman said. “If you think they’re looking out for you, you’re smoking the number one crop out of California.”

Ako Abdul-Samad, a former Black Panther, active Muslim and school board member in Des Moines, told his story of activism in the 1960s.

“We were trying to get a better education for everyone, not just African Americans.” Now, Abdul-Samad is an active part of the same system that rejected him decades ago.

“Crocodile tears get you nowhere,” he said. “We can make a difference. You need to get up and do something about it.”

Omar Tesdell, senior in journalism and mass communication and co-founder of Time For Peace, joined the stage with music artist Tracy Chapman, who ended the evening with an acoustic musical performance.

Tesdell shared how, at a young age, he and his family helped organize humanitarian aid packages for Kosovo refugees. Receiving a positive response from his peers and the community, the spark to activate change compelled him to continue service to the public.

Tesdell urged ISU students in attendance to continue activism in the community.

“Four Iowa State students are running for city council right now.” Tesdell said. “We’re trying.”