Hi! I'm Mica, and this page is a personal space to share why Iโm vegan and what that means to me.
I think that most of humanity wants to make decisions based on kindness, awareness, and living a life that causes less harm for all beings. For me, that means not eating animals or using products that come from them, as to not give my money to industries and companies that conduct animal exploitation, cruelty, torture, and extreme forms of killing. There are several forms of horrendousness happening all across the world, whether it's war and genocide, to capitalist exploitation, it's all terrible... I found that making choices on what I buy is the easiest forms of resistance, and choosing to not support animal cruelty, is one of the easiest decisions I can make that will help the environment and people's health.
I became vegan for a mix of reasons. Originally when I was 15, I developed stomach ulcers due to stress from trauma. My doctor at the time suggested for me to try not eating red meat for a while. Shortly after, I developed a love for punk music, and veganism was a common crossover with many bands. I was vegan/vegetarian on and off for about 25 years, and then most recently in the past few years, and with the support of my partner, we've both devoted our life to compassion for animals, concern for the planet, help people find restauraunts/resources/recipes, and a desire to take care of our own health. This website is a collection of thoughts and resources that mean a lot to me. If it's useful for anyone else, I am so happy to know :)
Thanks for stopping by ๐ซ
Veganism is choosing to avoid animal products for reasons like animal cruelty, health, or the environment. It's not about being perfectโit's about reducing harm wherever you can!
Why go vegan? ๐ฎ๐Veganism helps fight animal cruelty, reduce deforestation (70% of Amazon land is cleared for cattle), and conserve water (1 pound of beef = 1,800 gallons of water!). Plus, it's healthier! ๐ฟ
How bad is dairy and egg production? ๐๐ฅBoth dairy and egg industries are incredibly harmful. In dairy farms, cows are constantly impregnated to keep producing milk, and their calves are taken away, often to be slaughtered. In egg production, hens are kept in cramped conditions, often in battery cages, and their beaks are mutilated. Male chicks are killed right after hatching since they're not useful for laying eggs. It's a cycle of suffering for animals just to give us products that we don't actually need. ๐๐
Can I still eat my favorite foods? ๐Yes! Vegan alternatives are available for most foods. You can still enjoy pizza, burgers, and ice creamโjust plant-based versions! ๐ฑ๐
Health benefits of veganism ๐งโโ๏ธ๐ชA vegan diet is linked to lower risks of heart disease, cancer, and obesity. It's rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants for better health. ๐ฅฆ๐
Is it expensive? ๐ธNot really! Whole foods like beans, rice, and veggies are affordable. The fancy vegan products can be pricier, but theyโre optional! ๐ฆ๐ฐ
What if I make a mistake? ๐พDonโt worry! Veganism is a journey, not about perfection. Every plant-based choice helps. ๐ฑ๐ช
Can I get enough protein? ๐ช๐ฅYes! Beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh are packed with protein. Just balance your diet for the nutrients you need. ๐ฅโจ
Can I be vegan if I live somewhere with limited options? ๐Definitely! Focus on simple staples like grains, beans, and veggies. There are always options if you get creative. ๐๐พ
Is veganism just about food? ๐Nope! It's about reducing harm in every part of lifeโclothes, cosmetics, and even your toothbrush! ๐งณ๐ฟ
What about "Plants have feelings too?" ๐ปPlants respond to stimuli, but they lack a nervous system, so they can't feel pain like animals. The goal is to reduce suffering, and animals are sentient beings capable of pain. ๐ฑ๐
Can I wear leather if it's used or vintage? ๐ขI personally wouldn't buy new leather products, because that supports the companies who continue to exploit animals. But if it's used or vintage, you're not contributing to further harm. Youโre caring for an item that already exists and honoring the life that was lost, without promoting further exploitation. It's about reducing harm wherever possible. ๐๐
What's the most important thing to remember? โค๏ธKindness matters! Every step toward veganism counts. You're making a difference, even if it's just one meal at a time. ๐ฑ๐
Kindness matters! Every step toward veganism counts. You're making a difference, even if it's just one meal at a time. ๐ฑ๐