What did you learn about dietary choices from using the footprint calculator? Now imagine that you could translate what you learned into an effective societal policy on food- what would it be? And how would this policy effect the need to alleviate world hunger?
925 million people on earth do not have enough to eat according to the FAO [Food and Agricultural Organization]. That's almost 1 in 7 inhabitants of our planet!
Food & Hunger >
Mainstream Veganism
Mainstream veganism is ruled by rich, elite, white Americans and constantly shames and ignores people of color. When the rise of veganism made the media, it was presented as innovative and a new trendy way to help save the planet. It was presented as created by a British man, but has been practiced by people of color for many years before that. For example, Jamaican Rastafarians have been practicing eating plant based meals since the 1930's, and receive no credit for their practices. As mentioned in Thrillist’s Article ‘Vegan Race Wars: How the Mainstream Ignores Vegans of Color “White Vegans didn’t invent cruelty free eating” (Khushbu Shah). Not only do many white vegans ignore the communities of color who have been practicing veganism way before them, but they shame people who currently can’t join the movement. Being vegan is very expensive, especially being an organic vegan. People who are poor can’t afford to buy meat alternatives or organic produce. Instead of working against them, Vegans who preach for others to join the movement should strive for making foods that are better for our bodies easier to afford, and recognize those who are trying, but can’t afford to make the complete change.