Yes, THANK YOU for your strong words, Nandini. We all have our own way of approaching this.

I’ve been vegan for 45 years, after 2 years of lacto-vegetarianism…so 47 total years of non-murdered-animal-eating. A few months ago I resolved not to use the word “meat” anymore and to substitute “murdered animals.” A conversation with an “animal lover” who hasn’t become vegan usually goes, Me: “Just to let you know…I don’t use the word ‘meat’ anymore. Do you eat murdered animals?” Other: “Gulp. Yes, I do.” “Okay, here’s some literature. I hope this will help you start making the connection between what’s on your plate and the suffering behind it.”

On the subway in NYC, I walk through the car asking people, “Are you vegan yet?” Many people are, and I urge them to take my literature to give to others. It’s soooo gratifying when people reach out to me to get the literature.

One thing that amazes me is that SO many more people of color than whites are interested in veganism. I’d love to know why that is.

Also, I’ve found it’s extremely difficult to persuade Asians who were not born in the U.S. to take the literature. I know it’s a cultural thing, and I’d like to find out how I might overcome their reticence. Anyone have any ideas about that?

Haulelljah! I needed this-you’re my savior.

Oh. my. god.

Sorry, I had it wrong, B12 has something to do with bacteria, which used to be in the soil. Anywho, below is a PETA link that might clarify the iron/B12 thing.

Hey Tania, I think it is awesome that you make veg-friendly dishes! We need more open mindedness, and that goes for everyone. I think what you said about the possibility of chemicals in faux-foods is a very valid point.

Hang with me on this, concerning B12, yes, we do have to eat a lot of fortified foods, but technically yours is not coming naturally either. (Correct me if i have the physical process wrong, guys) It used to be in the soil, so when the animals ate the plants it would produce in their system. Now the soil is lacking B12, so the industry is actually giving injections to the animals. Heck, I can just inject myself! Lol and actually rice milk has more B12 than chickens. (Sorry chickens, just stating facts!)

As for iron, just look to your dark leafy greens! Sorry if you think I’m trying to lecture, that’s not at all my intent. I’m merely sharing info that I am discovering on my new journey. Have a great day!

Bleess you Nandini

Hi Tania –

It seems like you may be someone I describe as “veg minded” in the piece. This post is about meeting people where they are, and it’s nice to meet you.

To answer your question about recruiting new vegetarians and vegans, one might want to do it because it can communicate the benefits to those who don’t know about them. My favorite way is to wear a veg T-shirt at public events, like in the pic above. When people ask me about being veg, I share my experience and see where they are. 20 years ago someone did that for me and I’m really grateful.

Of course there are tons of other ways people try to recruit new vegetarians and vegans, many which bring their own negatives.

I hope this answered your question and thanks for checking out my post.

Also, Brian, very well-written article. I wish I had more veg connections, myself. It’s tough eating a plant-based diet in the South.