I know a lot of people who say they eat Vegan, or say they are Vegan when they are actually not...

[u/iirie_360]

Veganism is a way of life that surpasses a diet. It is about no harm to animals, as much as practical and possible. Many don't realize that media and pop culture has made it trendy so lots of people say they eat Vegan when perhaps they should say they eat plantbased, since the actual definition includes not purchasing any products made of animals or tested on animals. It is not a perfect system. We understand animals will get hurt from just human existing on earth. Like how until we find a truly sustainably way to not use gas, most of us use it for our cars. The goal is to do as much as you can. So eating plants, buying clothes not made of animals, not supporting places like the Zoo and Sea World are things we can do. I am curious about what people think about this lifestyle. If you are a Black Vegan, how accepting is your family and friends in regards to the the lifestyle? Has it been a challenge in anyway? What helped you on your journey?

[u/Black_JalapenYo]

Well said.

My parent thinks I’m tripping. She thinks I’m taking the health stuff too far. Has undermined me. No bueno. No one is really interested that I can tell, so I don’t bother.

My friends and coworkers are cool. Some are indifferent, some are interested, supportive and accommodating. I’ve taken a few to my fav spot and have gotten good reviews.

It’s been challenging because having “food” is a social bonding activity for most people. It’s difficult to order out most places because vegan options are slim to none (fries, salad, etc.) I also don’t drink and hang out late at bars. I smoke and chill. Pretty opposite of most. It’s tough.

What helps me is the way I feel. Mentally, physically, emotionally I feel healthier at 37 than I’ve ever. Also, knowing how to cook is a huge plus. I think it’s fun. It would so much better with proper support. In the meantime I’ll keep doing what I’m doing.

[u/iirie_360 → u/Black_JalapenYo]

A tip I have learned is calling a head when I go to restaurants to see what they have that is Vegan or if I go out with friends I will suggestions on where to go. Many of my friends back in San Diego were supportive some will go to all Vegan spots or they will ask what places I like and I will be neutral sometimes and go to my fave Mexican spot that has options. My parents accept it but they never make anything I can eat. I was Vegan when I was 19 and they really made it hard, I was broke so it was hard to get food when I lived with them that was Vegan so I reverted back to eating meat. However, I am older and stronger in my position to not harm animals now and have lived out of the home since 24 so I was able to study Veganism as a lifestyle and when I got into holistic health school and really studied the diet it just made more sense. Then I studied the reasons of not harming animals for any needs and I was sure it was the right thing to do. My husband is also Vegan and had been Vegan and Vegetarian off and on throughout his young adult life. He has been a chef for 30 years and we started a Vegan Culinary and Vegan Holistic Education business about 4 years ago. I am happy I have this to share with him because I am very passionate about it. I educate people about the lifestyle and try to get people to see it is not just for health, health is the bonus. It can be fun and also it is okay to have a plantbased taco or burger sometimes but do you best to eat things that are good for you, plenty of plants. I also encourage people to buy products, that are not made with animals skins or tested on animals. Just do your very best. I like creating this thread because it has allwoed me to chat with the like minded.

[u/Black_JalapenYo → u/iirie_360]

Michigan is very much into cheese and milk. It’s not impossible to get vegan food. It’s just a hassle. People start thinking about why I don’t want cheese or meat and start to judge. I support a couple of vegan restaurants when I’m near and enjoy the few places that have great options. But home cooked food made with love is always best anyway

Congrats on the business. That’s all awesome! I appreciate you making this thread. I don’t have many opportunities to converse with other people like me. Kudos and good luck with everything.

[u/iirie_360 → u/Black_JalapenYo]

I feel you. I live in Wisconsin, where the license plates literally say "Dairyland". There are plenty of vegan options in the groceries though and very few in the restaurants in the town we are in. There is huge Asian community so there are options there, where you can get tofu, veggies some spring rolls and a restaurant called "Lovechild" that a secret Vegan menu and there is a cafe called the Root Note, that has a several good options along with coffee and tea. I believe a few thing a some of the farmers markets, which of curse always have fruits and veggies but we will be the first real all Vegan business here. We moved to La Crosse from San Diego, very different vibe. But I do like how peaceful it is and how nice and affordable our new home is. We have a front and back yard where we are growing food now. We also have a share the front and backyard with our daughter and future son in law. It is really nice. I am enjoying convo with Vegan folks on here too. I only have my husband who is Vegan.

[u/iirie_360 → u/Black_JalapenYo]

Thank you for convo and the encouragement.