World Vegan Day
World Vegan Day is an annual event celebrated on November 1st to promote the vegan lifestyle. It originated in 1994 when vegan animal rights activist Louise Wallis established the day to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Vegan Society the world’s oldest vegan organization. The day was created to encourage people to follow a vegan lifestyle and spread awareness about veganism and the many issues the world faces regarding our food supply and its impact on the environment. The day also raises awareness about the treatment of animals and the ethical issues of mass livestock.
Veganism is a way of living that seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.
Vegans do not eat meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, honey, or any other animal-derived products. They also avoid using animal-derived products in their clothing, cosmetics, and other personal care products.
There are many reasons why people choose to go vegan. Some people do it for ethical reasons, believing exploiting animals for any purpose is wrong. Others do it for health reasons, believing that a vegan diet is healthier than a diet that includes animal products. Still, others do it for environmental reasons, believing that a vegan diet is better for the planet.
See also: Peta Launches $1m Competition for Vegan Wool.
Whatever the reason, World Vegan Day is a time to celebrate the many benefits of veganism. It is also a time to learn more about veganism and consider switching to a vegan lifestyle.
How to celebrate:
- Try out a vegan diet/ recipe.
- Get involved with a world vegan day event (local events, talks, cooking demonstrations).
- Invite your friends over and have a completely animal-free meal.
- Learn about the health benefits of veganism.
- Take the 30-day vegan challenge.
Fun Facts:
- Veganism is said to have existed for more than 2000 years.
- A vegan diet includes consuming food and plant products that do not harm animals.
- An ethical vegan follows not only veganism in his diet but also in other aspects of life. Environmental vegans are people who avoid animal products on the premise of industrial farming of animals which is environmentally damaging.
- Veganism was coined as a term and accepted into the Oxford English Dictionary in 1944.
- Israel is the country that is leading and most rapidly converting to vegan lifestyles.
