Happy World Vegan Day! 

November 1 has been chosen as World Vegan Day to celebrate the vegan lifestyle and its benefits for people and animals. World Vegan Day was established in November 1994 by Louise Wallis, the President of The Vegan Society at that time, to celebrate its 50th anniversary. This date was set to raise awareness about veganism and continues to do so this year. And to honour their great work, I’m sharing a little bit of my vegan journey.  

By Gabriela Chapa

/in/gabrielachapa25/

I’ve always considered myself an animal lover, but unfortunately, I was unaware of the impact my eating choices had on animals and the planet until I learned about the hidden aspects of the food industry. I was a vegetarian for about three years until I came across a book called “The Vegetarian Handbook” by Dr. Gary Null. Reading this book opened my eyes to new information I had never heard and things about the food industry that just seem wrong to support. 

After finishing the book, something changed within me. I lost interest in eggs and milk. However, like many others, I wondered how I could ever give up cheese. I continued with my vegetarian diet for a few more months until I watched “Cowspiracy.” This documentary completely transformed my perspective on food. After watching it, I knew I couldn’t continue consuming animal products and supporting an industry that inflicts unnecessary suffering on animals. Since that day, I’ve immersed myself in reading and studying about veganism, and I’ve come to realize that giving up meat and animal products was the best decision I’ve ever made. 

Initially, discussing veganism was a bit nerve-wracking because I would often face arguments and questions I didn’t know how to answer as I was just starting my journey. With time, this changed, and I have learned so much more and continue to do so day by day.  While I have encountered jokes about my food choices, people getting angry with me, or expressing concerns about my health; I’ve also met people who are genuinely interested in learning. People ask for advice and tips on how to make the transition or include more plant-based options in their lives, as well as food and brand recommendations.  

I am the only vegan in my family and among my circle of friends, so I frequently faced questions about my lifestyle. Even though I used to find challenging to be the only vegan, I now view it as an opportunity to educate those around me and raise awareness about veganism.

Many people often tell me, “I could never go vegan; I don’t know how you do it.” I no longer get discouraged by such statements because I used to say the same things, and now I know that it is possible and nowadays way easier to achieve and maintain. Once you understand what happens behind the scenes in slaughterhouses and laboratories, it’s nearly impossible to go back to normal and keep supporting these industries. Not to mention, the plant-based options available are constantly increasing, and it’s so easy to find delicious options to make at home and also to eat out.  

Today, I join my fellow vegans worldwide in celebrating the significant impact this movement has had so far. We celebrate the lives saved every time someone chooses veganism. While some may think our choices have been in vain, I don’t believe that’s the case. We have recently witnessed large food chains incorporating plant-based options into their products and menus –like Burger King making its flagship London store fully plant-based. Every time a vegan product is introduced to the market or a law is passed in favor of animal welfare, it’s a victory. 

For those who have considered veganism but feel that their choices won’t make a difference, let me tell you that your choices have a profound impact on the lives of animals. Every time you skip a meal containing animal products, you are saving a life. Don’t be discouraged by societal concerns about protein deficiency, a well-planned plant-based diet can meet your nutritional needs, just make sure you’re informed and conscious of what you’re consuming and the changes you’re making.  While our bodies have unique requirements, it has been proven that a well-balanced plant-based diet is completely suitable and healthy for all stages of life. 

If you’re interested in learning more about veganism, there are multiple organizations with a wealth of information. You can visit www.peta.org/living/ or www.veganuary.com, where you can find numerous resources to expand your knowledge. You are not alone.  

Here is a list of some of my favorite vegan sources of inspiration: 

– Book: The Essential Vegan Toolkit by Sara Botero 

–Movie: “Okja”  

–Documentary: “Cowspiracy” 

–Song : Equidad by Connie Isla  

–Cheese: Miyoko’s  

–Restaurant: Vegan Avenue, San Antonio, TX, USA 

–Activist: Ed Winters (Earthling Ed) 

–YouTuber: Amanda Ducks @AmandaDucks 

–Make-up: e.l.f. Cosmetics

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