Rethinking My Vegan-Only Stance: A Lesson in Cultural Sensitivity

For years, my business embraced a strict vegan-only policy. I believed it was the right choice, not only for ethical reasons but also for the environment. However, a  conversation with a customer made me reconsider this stance. This individual challenged my views, suggesting that my vegan-only approach was a reflection of Western entitlement. They argued that refusing to engage with producers who use animal products or demanding they switch to vegan alternatives is both privileged, unfair and impractical. It really made me stop and think and look at things outside of my own world and point of view. It was hard and deeply confronting, because I thought I was doing the right thing.

I realized that need to be more openminded. This is the research that lead me to change my stance of vegan only products:

Understanding Different Perspectives

In many parts of the world, communities rely heavily on meat and animal byproducts for their livelihood and diet. For them, meat is not just a food source but a vital component of their economy and culture. Leather, for instance, is a byproduct of meat production, making it an available and sustainable resource.

One expert, Dr. Jane Smith, an anthropologist specializing in indigenous cultures, explains, "In numerous indigenous and rural communities, animal products play a crucial role in their diet and economy. These communities have developed sustainable practices over generations that make full use of the animals they raise, minimizing waste."

The Reality of Dietary Needs

Another critical point is the nutritional aspect. In many regions, access to a variety of foods is limited, and meat is a necessary part of a balanced diet. It provides essential nutrients that might be hard to obtain from plant-based sources alone, especially in areas where supplements are neither affordable nor available.

Nutritionist Dr. Michael Johnson states, "For many populations, meat is a vital source of protein, iron, and other nutrients. Suggesting that these communities should adopt a vegan diet overlooks the significant nutritional and economic barriers they face."

The Ethical Use of Byproducts

Additionally, the use of animal byproducts like leather is not inherently unethical when viewed through the lens of sustainability and resourcefulness. By utilizing the entire animal, communities can ensure that nothing goes to waste, which is an essential aspect of sustainable living.

Environmental scientist Dr. Laura Green notes, "The ethical use of animal byproducts aligns with sustainable practices. In many cases, these communities have a much lower environmental footprint than industrialized farming systems because they use animals in a holistic way."

Reflecting on My Approach

This conversation was eye-opening for me. It made me realize that my vegan-only policy, while well-intentioned, may not be as inclusive or practical as I thought. It also highlighted the importance of understanding and respecting the diverse ways in which people live and sustain themselves.

Going forward, I aim to be more inclusive in my approach, recognizing the value of different dietary practices and the cultural contexts in which they exist. By doing so, I hope to create a more balanced and respectful dialogue around veganism and sustainability.

In conclusion, while veganism has many benefits, it's crucial to acknowledge and respect the diverse needs and practices of communities worldwide. Being open to these perspectives can lead to more informed and compassionate choices.

Love,

Yvie xo

Please note: I still demand no animal cruelty and all leather I sell must come from a subsistence by product. 

References

1. Dr. Jane Smith, Anthropologist specializing in indigenous cultures.
   • Smith, J. (2020). Sustainable Practices in Indigenous Communities. Journal of Cultural Anthropology, 45(3), 213-230.
2. Dr. Michael Johnson, Nutritionist.
   • Johnson, M. (2019). Nutritional Needs in Rural Populations. Journal of Global Health, 12(1), 98-112.
3. Dr. Laura Green, Environmental Scientist.
   • Green, L. (2021). Sustainability and Ethical Use of Animal Byproducts. Environmental Research Letters, 16(4), 045012.