The 'E' of PETA stands for 'ETHICAL', which is a core value of the organization. People for the ETHICAL Treatment of Animals (PETA) is an international non-profit animal rights organization that works to protect animals from abuse and exploitation. PETA's mission is to promote the ETHICAL treatment of animals through public education, research, legislation, and direct action. The organization believes that all animals should be treated with respect and compassion, and that humans have a responsibility to protect them from harm.