WORDS FROM VEGAN ACTIVISTS

Caryn Hartglass explains: "As the executive director of EarthSave International, I am surrounded by vegans. I attend many vegetarian events." She adds, "I believe that to make change we have to be the change. I live a life that I believe in. I celebrate being vegan and share it joyously with others. I never judge or make people feel uncomfortable about what they are doing. I like to have dinner parties for non-vegans and make beautiful delicious food. I am always available to friends for information about food, nutrition, recipes. As a result, many people I have connected with have become vegan or have significantly reduced the animal products they eat." and "I try not to judge others and accept them as they are. I was a meat-eater once. But I can't resist the opportunities when they appear appropriate to spread the word, to help people be healthier, improve the environment and reduce cruelty to animals."

Chef Jason Wyrick has this to say: "I organize dinners for The Vegetarian Society (Phoenix, Arizona), do cooking classes and run THE VEGAN CULINARY EXPERIENCE (www.veganculinary experience.com). The VCE is a vegan culinary magazine in the vein of Bon Appétit that I use to bring other vegans and those interested in vegan cuisine together, as well as to introduce them to other vegan chefs, athletes and activists around the world." When asked about people's reactions to his veganism, Chef Jason replies: "Most people feel the need to say something along the lines of 'That's great, but I could never do it'. I nod and smile and show them the food I prepare and their attitudes quickly change. I have also noticed people know what vegan means now and are much more accepting of it than they were five years ago."

Marc Delaney says "I formed the Salem Vegan Society (www.salemvegan.org) here in Salem, MA., which was at first intended to be a social and networking group for vegans and vegetarians in Salem and Boston's North Shore. It has become an internet-based vegan and animal rights news and information source for the local and the broader internet community. We publish the cutting-edge on-line forum SVS Viewpoint. We also currently sponsor the annual Salem Vegan food drive to benefit the Salem Mission, a city-wide vegan event!" He continues:"Neither veganism nor the concept of the Salem Vegan Society has gained much support here from the Salem community. But I remain optimistic for the future, and I recognize its need here." In response to other survey questions, Marc answers: "Most people I meet are either surprised or turned-off by my veganism. This never ceases to utterly amaze me." Also, "I feel more at ease with other vegans. I don't mean to be a snob, but I can't help feeling that vegans are much more intelligent than non-vegans. I enjoy being around intelligent people." Finally he adds, "I treat everyone the same, whether they're vegan or non-vegan. I'm kind to everyone I meet."

Debbie from www.MeatFreeMedia.com who lives in Auckland, New Zealand says: "I would date non-vegans because people change - I have had relationships with people who were meat-eaters and are now long-time vegans."

Maynard Clark who hosts a vegan meet-up group and is affiliated with the Boston Vegan Society and an animal rights group explains: "My strategy is to start a venue, a group, and have others more persuasive than I do the influencing" in response to the question 'Have you influenced others to become vegan?'.

Dixy Mahy says "I have been actively promoting vegetarianism, eventually veganism, through the San Francisco Vegetarian Society 39 of its 40 years. In addition to its monthly meetings, potlucks, newsletters, web site, and other activities, I have probably touched thousands of lives and influenced many to consider vegetarianism/veganism. Last year, I, as president of S.F.V.S. and organizer of our 8th annual World Vegetarian Day Celebration, was pleased to see around 5,500 attendees to our event. We were awarded the favorite Veg Festival of 2007 by Veg News. We are planning our 9th annual World Veg Festival for October 4th and 5th 2008 with fabulous speakers like John Robbins, Howard Lyman, Dr. Milton Mills, Dr. Alan Goldhamer, Dr. Will Tuttle, and many more with food demos, vendors and entertainers. It will be another fabulous event celebrating our vegan diet and lifestyle! I might add that the event attracts many non-vegetarians ..."

Patty 'Sassy' Knutson - "I meet some vegans through my work as a vegan personal chef and some through my website (www.VeganCoach.com). But honestly, most vegans I know actually went vegan after seeing all the perks of the lifestyle (clear skin, weight maintenance, healthy hair and boundless energy) - they want that too!" She also said, "I've always loved animals. But now I love to look in their eyes, into their souls. It's some of the most touching and beautiful moments of my life, that I cherish. They always manage to make me smile."

Sheri Thom of Orange City, California, meets vegans by being an activist. When asked how her family feels about her veganism she replies: "They were concerned about it at first. But I've educated them on the misconceptions which have been promoted by society/media/government agencies, funded by meat and dairy industries, enlightened them of their own hypocrisies, relieved them of the ignorance associated with veganism. They now admire the intelligence to choose the right road and the strength to often walk it alone. That is veganism."

Daniel Peterson explains: "I am a member of THE HOUSTON VEGAN MEETUP GROUP, so I meet plenty of vegans at its monthly meetings. I am also a member of a local advocacy group called THE SOCIETY OF PEACE (People for the Earth, Animals, Compassion and Enlightenment) so I also get to mingle with vegans and vegetarians through the activities sponsored by that group." Daniel shares, "Veganism was something that really bonded my wife and me together when we were dating. It's something we were ecstatic about having in common. And we were happy to know that we could raise our prospective children with a healthy vegan diet. Veganism was an added bonus to our relationship."

Sheldon from www.vegansa.com tells us: "I run, voluntarily, a vegan directory aimed at promoting vegan and vegan-friendly businesses in South Africa. Also I am a member of animal rights activist groups that conducts popular activism." He lives in Kwa-Zulu-Natal, South Africa.

Jill Hahn, Los Angeles, California says: "We have an amazing vegan community here! In fact, I produce an all-vegan music and educational festival every year called WorldFest (www.worldfestevents.com)." Jill tells us, "I never preach and don't criticize. I always approach from a place of compassion, education and passion. I try to lead by example and throw in vegan-specific information whenever I can. I determine what the best approach is as well (i.e. health, animal abuse, or environment)."

Art Konrad is a member of the San Francisco Vegetarian Society and enjoys their events. He says, "If I were single and interested in dating, and if I really cared about a carnivore woman, I would date her in hopes of converting her. Some of my bachelor friends are like that, using dating as a way to introduce girls to meditation/veganism. They seem to 'save a lot of souls' that way (and have some fun while they are at it). Hey, I know it is hard work but somebody's got to do it."

Victoria Crompton from Wilmington, Delaware, meets vegans through DELAWARE ACTION FOR ANIMALS and a Veg Meetup Group. She explains, in response to the question 'Would you object to being romantically involved with a non-vegan': "Yes, because given the cruelty and environmental degradation associated with the production of animal products, a person who chooses to support those industries could not possibly have either the mind or the open heart I'm seeking in a relationship."

Ben Martin from Wallingford, CT., says: "I organize the New Haven Vegan Meetup, which gets me in touch with other vegans. I can't imagine sharing a living space with omnivores, especially the kitchen. I would have a hard time spending romantic time with someone who is not vegan. It's a very important part of my life and I would want a potential partner to share it." He adds, "Although I have always treasured and respected all animals, becoming vegan was the final realization of my beliefs into action. I no longer feel guilt when visiting animals although the regret of not acting sooner is still with me."

David Middlesworth is in his 70's and is chairman of Board of United Animal Nations, a national animal rescue organization. He's a member of the Sacramento Vegetarian Society which is almost all-vegan. He meets vegans from Sacramento Vegetarian Society and San Francisco Vegetarian Society events.

Joanne Rose, author and founder of www.veganvirgin.com says: "I live and breathe veganism. It is my life! I educate and inspire others about this beautiful lifestyle as an international columnist for Vegan Voice Magazine."

Hope Bohanac, vegan since 1990, from Santa Rosa, California explains: "I am founder of a group called Vegan Voices. We host monthly potlucks and organize other educational outreach. I like to connect with other active vegans helping animals through Vegan Voices." When asked who she was inspired by she answered: "Paul Shapiro, director of Factory Farm Campaigns for H.S.U.S. He is so young to have come so far and he is an amazing speaker and person. I'm not really into celebrities, but I'm glad when they use their power and influence to help the animals and earth."

Sherree Gordon from Brisbane, Australia meets other vegans through Animal Liberation Queensland. She says: "I am married and my husband is not vegan. If I were dating again, I would veer towards vegetarians/vegans."

Becci from Vancouver volunteers for an animal rights group called Liberation B.C. She's met vegans in this group as well as at EarthSave and Vancouver Humane Society. Her husband became vegan thanks to her influence. She tells us: "I do a lot of activism and talk to a lot of people, and when I'm not in volunteering mode I try to make being vegan seem relatively easy and worthwhile." She adds, "Since becoming vegan I've also become more concerned about how people are treated too. For example, I work hard to make sure I don't buy anything made in sweatshops or produced by companies involved in other unethical practices."

Shirley Wilkes-Johnson is 100% vegan since 1984 and lives in W. Columbia, Texas. She has taught vegan cooking classes and has given presentations, and also co-hosts 'Go Vegan Texas!' on Pacifica's KPFT radio in Houston. To quote Shirley: "My mother and uncle first thought it was a phase I was going through when I stopped eating animals in 1961. My husband and daughter are vegan." Shirley, both heterosexual and vegansexual, explains "Yes, I would object to being romantic with a non-vegan as meat-eating is morally repugnant to me." She explains, "I am proud of being vegan and I think people treat you according to how you feel about yourself. I feel lucky that my veganism is, for the most part, respected by people that I know that aren't vegan." Lastly, "I am the founder of Go Vegan Texas! The show has recently changed the name to Vegan World Radio (www.veganworldradio.org)".

Alex Hershaft, director of F.A.R.M (USA), modestly replies: "I hope so ,through our eight international campaigns" in response to the question 'Have you influenced others to become vegan?'. He and Will Tuttle both thought there were more female vegans than males showing up at their functions/lectures.

Aragorn Eloff, founder of the South African Vegan Society (www.vegansociety.co.za) in Johannesburg, South Africa, has this to say: "I am a vegan and don't use animal products for food, clothing, etc. As an animal rights activist I also avoid exploitative industries like zoos, circuses, pet shops (the ones that actually sell pets) etc. and campaign against these and other forms of animal cruelty." Aragorn influences others by running the local society and their café.

David A. Weseloh, Ph.D from Texas, meets other vegans on VEGAN MAILING LIST; his website. Inspired by the Buddha, he explains: "I have lost several friends because of my veganism and my religion."

George Barwick tells us: "I used to run the Swansea Vegans Group and used to send out newsletters to over 100 people. I now meet vegans mostly through Swansea Vegans." His wife, two sons and daughter are all vegan and all happy with their veganism. "While running Swansea Vegans for 5 years between 2002-2007, I had set-up and attended a stand (Respecting Animals) at the Welsh National Eisteddfod. I've also had stands at Green Fairs and local charity fairs. I've given talks to schools and am the Vegan Society local contact."

Crystal is completely vegan, no exceptions, age group 19-30. She has started a vegan blog - www.veganexplosion.com. Crystal, from Austin, Texas, tells us: "There's a huge local vegan group here with about 600 members. It's called Vegans Rock Austin." When asked about people's reactions to her veganism she replies: "At first they assume I eat lots of salad and 'rabbit food' but we don't go very long without cooking or baking for any new acquaintances. Any preconceived notions about veganism are quickly debunked when they taste their first vegan lasagna or red velvet cake."

Lynda, from central Scotland, tells us: "I set up the organization 'Scottish Vegans' out of the vegan membership of the Scottish Animal Rights Alliance, which I also set up and ran. It has evolved into a social group on yahoo and the group holds monthly potlucks involving lots of vegan food and chat." When asked if she was inspired by any activists she replied: "Steve Best, Gary Francione and Mark Bekoff; their philosophy is so logical and straight-forward. Many other activists including those at Animal Aid, Uncaged Campaigns, as well as Rod Coronado, Keith Mann and others campaigning for animal liberation." Lynda also explains, "I am proud to be vegan and make no apologies for it. I don't lecture/preach, but I don't 'fluff' over things to make others feel better about their consumption of animals. I am a compassionate, ethical vegan and I relate to others as such; human and non-human." She adds, "The plight of animals worldwide made me become vegan, almost overnight, and so my relationship to them has become forever altered, for the better, I must say. When I think of the roast lamb or gammon steak dinners I used to tuck into...." And finally, "Through my campaign work, I hope to have reached people as an unknown person reached me ten years ago."

Kristen Lee Ohanyan, from Houston Texas, says: "Since my husband and I founded Society of P.E.A.C.E. in early 2004, it has grown from just two of us to over 300 people, representing all ages and walks of life. The Houston Vegan Meetup boasts a similar number, growing all the time." Kristen tells us about the activists she was inspired by: "Nathan Runkle, Gene Baur, Dr. Will Tuttle, Moby, Woody Harrelson, Dennis Kucinich and the list goes on. I'm most inspired by those not in the limelight, who are vegan activists without any recognition or fame. They are the true heroes. Many of those here in Houston are such heroes." She further explains, "For Society of P.E.A.C.E, we host lots of different events such as dinners, guest speakers, picnics, vegan feed-ins, classes, tabling at festivals, e-newsletter and our local vegan radio program." Finally from Kristen, "I follow what Carol Adams (vegan, feminist and author) once said in a radio interview; I strive to live my life doing the least amount of harm possible."

Achim Stoesser, near Frankfurt, Germany, says: "I am the founder of Maqui - For Animal Rights, Against Speciesism. Our websites: (maqui.de, antispe.de, tierrechtskochbuch.de (animal rights cookbook), etc. (Some of them in English like govegan.de, animal-liberation.tk). Our article/website: http://vegetarier-sind-moerder.de (German for 'Vegetarians are Murders' has made many, many vegans." Furthermore, he tells us of some of his activism: "Animal liberations, press articles, TV reports, activities like presenting corpses found in egg production facilities to the public, developing vegan recipes, product requests (to find out which products are really vegan and which are not-sometimes even to change products, for example a margarine that contained Vitamin D from lanoline (lanolin) is now produced without." In response to the extent of his veganism, Achim says, "I'm vegan; not pseudo vegan." He also says, "I'm not interested in a relationship with non-vegans/speciesists (as well as racists, fascists, theists, etc.)" He remarks, "I think there are more vegan women, but more male activists." Lastly from Achim, "I'm vegan-sexual. Yes, it a matter of ethics, there's no romance in blood baths."

Lisa Shapiro from Boulder, Colorado, hosts a vegan meetup and does animal activism weekly. She tells us that "So many vegan activists inspire me." And she remarks, "Veganism makes me have more compassion and empathy for the immense suffering animals endure. I learn to block it out, so I can function on a daily basis; otherwise it is too overwhelming."

This well-known U.S. activist and author chose to be quoted anonymously. He travels the U.S., full-time, giving lectures. He tells us, "I am an activist, always trying to spread the vegan message to anyone willing to listen and look!" When asked if he's influenced others he replies, "Yes, mainly through my lectures, my book, my articles, my example (according to what people say) and so forth. I've been working on spreading veganism for over 25 years, and get many e-mails from people saying that because of my writing they've gone vegan." When asked if women or men are more open to the vegan concept, he answers, "Generally, I'd say women are more open, and I do this professionally - speaking every weekend practically in a different city; meeting thousands of people." In response to the question if the vegans he knows are healthy, he responds with, "Yes, for the most part. Some of the vegans eat junk food or don't exercise, or had serious health challenges before becoming vegan. Most look much better than the average population and feel better and have more energy. My spouse and I certainly do!"

Derek Goodwin from Northampton, Massachusetts, explains, "I am as vegan as I can be, and an activist for animals." In addition, "I work in a vegan café, host vegan events, produce a vegan radio show, and drive a vegan bus." He was inspired by Gene Baur (co-founder of Farm Sanctuary) and many others. Derek tells us, "Women are more likely to be in touch with their compassion than men. Men in our culture are generally raised and indoctrinated into a 'tough guy' mentality, and I think it is harder for them to get past that. Also the lies about needing ridiculous amounts of protein to be strong are harder for men to get past." Derek adds, "I don't like to be around people eating meat, and I have a little less respect for people who have been exposed to the issues but choose not to make any changes in their lives. I influence people with my activism and also tend to rub off on people who are close to me." He says, " I try to treat everyone with respect and compassion."

Lee Hall, vegan since 1983, from Malvern, Pennsylvania, informs us, "I am a conscientious objector to animal agribusiness. Moreover, as far as possible, I strive to avoid any and all products of deliberate exploitation, as Donald Watson and The Vegan Society founders did, and I attempt to do everything I can to respect all other conscious beings and the environment we call home." In response to a question about which gender is more open to veganism, Lee Hall remarks, "I think those sort of assumptions can be self-fulfilling or limiting, so I prefer not to say. Everyone is a potential vegan." Lee meets other vegans through work (FRIENDS OF ANIMALS) and at the vegan restaurant nearby (SuTAo in Malvern, PA.). Lee explains, "I attend vegan festivals. I have influenced several others to become vegan, so I actually met some vegans as non-vegans first." In response to what influenced Lee, she says, "My veganism is directly related to Robin Lane, now a co-facilitator of the London Vegan Festival, whom I first met in 1983. Priscilla Feral is also a vegan activist who inspired me, as are Jan and Dave of the Albany (N.Y.) Vegetarian Network, and many others to numerous to list. Donald Watson should be named, of course." She influences others, usually by speaking at colleges.

Frank and Mary Hoffman of the website: www.all-creatures.org have been vegan since 1987 for Mary, and 1988 for Frank. They reside in upstate New York. They've been with each other for nearly 48 years. Their veganism was an outgrowth of the animal rights movement. To quote the Hoffmans, "The more compassionate a person is, the more open to veganism they are."

Wanda Embar from Wisconsin, USA has the www.veganpeace.com website. She tells us, "Through my work on my website, I am constantly confronted with stories and images of animal abuse. This makes it very difficult for me to be around people who are consuming animal products. To actually be in a relationship with a non-vegan would be too difficult." She adds, "I know a lot of vegans and their health seems very good. However, I have noticed a decrease in the health of some vegans in the past years. Especially since there are more unhealthy vegan snacks/cookbooks that have come on the market. The current emphasis seems to be on creating vegan versions of all non-vegan junk food, which is not necessarily a good thing." Wanda tells us "I've visited Farm Sanctuary several times now and it is very painful to realize that the animals there are just he lucky few who were rescued. It is also really difficult to be around the wild turkeys that live in my area around Thanksgiving. As a human being, I feel very frustrated and partly guilty about the way humans are treating these innocent creatures."

Prad, whose web site is: www.towardsfreedom.com (Information, Inspiration, Imagination; Truly a site for Soaring I's) lives on Vancouver Island, Canada. In his survey response he says, "I view the world very differently now than I did in the 80's and earlier. Things (i.e. situations, television shows, etc.) that I thought were o.k. back then (dealing with animals and people) just aren't anymore." Prad informs us, "I have 3 rabbits, 2 dogs, 3 cats. They are all 100% vegan and have been for many years (some close to or beyond a decade)."

James O'Heare is the website owner of www.vegandognutritionassociation.com is from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He describes the extent of his veganism as "very extensive". He has a vegan dog and ferret. Some words of wisdom from James are "Non-vegans are conflicted because of the disconnection between their opinion of animals and what they do to them. I see animals with a clear conscience."

Linda Bower of Miami EarthSave (http://miami.earthsave.org) has much of substance to say. Here is a sampling of quotes from Linda. "I have dedicated the remainder of my life to this message and I view our treatment of farm animals as a holocaust."Also, she says "I've influenced others to be vegan, mostly, through the 'Adopt-a-College' program in VEGAN OUTREACH, where you just go and leaflet colleges. I also do tabling and visits at schools." Linda explains "I believe the patriarchal macho types still living in the Dark Ages are just more vocal about their resistance (to veganism), but there's a lot of people from both sexes that are unwilling to be witness to the atrocities and to step up to the plate to defend our fellow citizens and our planet." Linda says, "I don't 'love' vegans any more than non-vegans. There are times when I am dumbfounded as to how someone can watch 'Meet your Meat' and then eat a hamburger. But I am also dumbfounded as to how a vegan who understands the issues, is not also an activist. However, I do feel as though fellow activists understand each other's motivations in ways that others do not, which results in special relationships." Finally, "As a vegan advocate, I do my best to be as open and honest as possible and to work full-time at reducing suffering in the world."

Shemirah Brachah from Johnstown, New York says "For the past few years, I've attended F.A.R.M.'s Animal Rights Conference. There are lots of vegans there! Alex Hershaft is my hero! Because I come into contact with lots of vegans through my work with F.A.R.M., I know as many vegans who are male as are female." He says, "My friendships with vegans are deep and strong; my friendships with non-vegans are more acquaintances. Over the years, my non-vegan friends have drifted away."

David Horton, vegan since 1985, lives in Sydney, Australia. David says, in response to the question 'Does he influence others to become vegan?', "Gee, I hope so, but have no direct evidence. Hope some have read my books and been moved to become vegan but one never gets to know that." "I take a non-violent approach to people when talking about animal rights, i.e. not too pushy." More from David: "I can talk freely with vegan friends, others I have to be careful not to mention the 'V-word' or get in animal matters. It makes them uncomfortable and they change the subject." And some lovely concluding words from David, "I now talk to animals more intelligently than I speak to humans. Ha Ha Ha. I really do understand the world from an animal's perspective and all I want to do is help them get free of the human enslavers. I'm sure I will pursue this advocacy till my last breath."

Shoshanah Cohen, age 24 @ time of survey, from Bristol, U.K. meets other vegans at work. She works for Viva! in the U.K.. She tells us that "Bristol hosts the world's biggest vegan fayre, so there are obviously enough vegans around to make it worthwhile." Also, she adds, "I actively research things I buy, to make sure they are vegan, e.g. I don't buy stainless steel, new computer monitors or anything else with animal products in it (even if it's only a possibility and I can't find out for sure for a particular product) and even if it is only a trace amount."

Katarzyna (Kas) Ward is the event main coordinator of Vegan Festival in Adelaide, South Australia. In response to the question 'How do you describe the extent of your veganism?' Kas replies: "Whole lifestyle: *diet- (some soy yoghurts as you may know are animal-free yoghurts but their bacteria are grown on dairy; I do not consume even these. I am choosing products with no preservatives, no chemicals, no palm oil, etc.*clothing*spirituality - no harm to any living creature*health - no medications, eating as much raw as possible*activism - doing things promoting veganism and a vegan lifestyle (organizing festivals, cooking demos, home movie screenings, inviting non-vegans for vegan meals,)*naturalism- natural parenting *environment - looking after our environment, for us and our future generations."

Sophie Fenwick-Paul, from Reading, United Kingdom, runs the website ActiVeg Veganising Catalyst (http://www.activeg.org) - To Inspire, support and link up all veg*an contacts and team with other positive animal and eco activity. She tells us, "There must be a thousand vegans in Reading. We have met come of them through running a local group." She also says, "I try to make sure in normal social contexts that people know me for awhile before they know I am vegan. That way they find it far easier (as with any luck, they like me already, so will respect my veganism too!)"

Sacred Chow Vegan Bistro (New York City) restaurant owner responded to this survey. In response to the question of how people react to their veganism, the owner replied, "Just fine. Vegan; low carbon and more mainstream and therefore considered healthier." In response to questioning the extent of responder's veganism, Sacred Chow restaurant owner replies, "Non Judgmental. Low Carbon. Heart-Healthy. Less Violence."

Vesanto Melina, M.S., Registered Dietician tells us, "My co-author, Brenda Davis, inspires me. The very touching choices of many people I meet who are choosing to become vegan inspire me; these people get in touch with me because they want to successfully adopt a nutritious vegan diet, and I learn about the effort they are making, their challenges, their ethics. I am continually inspired." Vesanto adds, "My work as an author of bestselling books on vegan nutrition and foods (Becoming Vegan, The Food Allergy Survival Guide, etc.) brings me in contact with other vegans, so the world seems more brightly populated with vegans than perhaps it really is. Also I see many vegan clients." "Our book 'Becoming Vegan' has sold over 100,000 copies perhaps getting close to 200,000 copies now." She concludes, "When I learned how animals destined to become human food are treated, I became vegan."

Manish Jain website owner of www.IndianVegan.com is from Indore, India. When asked about vegans in the area, Manish replies "People are not aware of this kind of philosophy." In response to how he meets other vegans, Manish explains, "We have created a community 'indianvegans group' on www.orkut.com and many of Indian vegans are on my 'IndianVegan' website. I devote my valuable time for the promotion of veganism, by putting up poster exhibitions, distribution of leaflets, CD's. I also give lectures to small groups to become vegan. As mentioned above, I also run www.indianvegan.com"

Michael Bedar resides in Patagonia, Arizona. In response to questions in this survey, Michael says, "I know that I play a part in influencing hundreds or thousands of people to become vegan a year as a teacher at the TREE OF LIFE REJUVINATION CENTER in Patagonia, Arizona, and through on-line support at www.CultureofLIfeCommunity.com This is part of a very satisfying professional life in the vegan, organic, live-food teaching, inspiration and empowerment field." Michael adds, "The vegans I know are extremely healthy. We are definitely mostly live-food vegans, organic, many gardeners...We are not packaged vegan food people, whom I cannot speak for. Over 95% of the vegans I know have great physical health, endurance, strength, vitality, clarity, sharpness of mind, and open hearts."

Dr. Andy Mars, vegan since 1987, resides in Reseda, CA. explains the extent of his veganism like this: "I do not use any products that ever were or came from an animal. I grow most of my food veganically. I try to live so as to maximize my positive impact on the world whilst minimizing my negative impact on the world. I run non-profit youth groups (www.KidsMakeA Difference.org) and summer/winter camp programs, (www.CampExploration.org) that are totally vegan. I've helped many a child and parent go vegan. I invite non-vegan friends over to my house for fully vegan dinners. I dine out with non-vegan friends only at vegan restaurants. I do not support circuses or zoos or other forms of 'entertainment' that are not vegan. My dog is totally vegan, too. I am starting a totally vegan school, too (www.MarsAcademy.org)." He concludes with "Since becoming vegan, I have become more fully conscious of all my decisions and the effects they have on animals (including people), and the planet."

JC Corcoran from Athens, Georgia tells us that there are vegans in Athens, Georgia and all but a few are activists! In response to the question about the extent of the survey responder's veganism, Mr. Corcoran replies "I am a full-time volunteer activist!" Other interesting points of his: "My father thinks I'm a 'militant vegan'. If spreading the Truth, amidst lies, is militant, then he's right." and "I started several outreach processes; a vegetarian Meet-up Group, 'Ask-a-Vegan' at the local natural food store and wearing message shirts. I also influence others with letters to the Editor (one recent one went into over one million newspapers!) I started a Veg group, gave lectures, showed film series, etc." When asked if he objected to being romantic with a non-vegan he replied, "Yes, they have to GET IT! Non-violence; it's simple."

Pamela, from Hawaii is the website owner of www.veganwolf.com (For the Animals, the Earth, and YOU! Recipes, Information and More! Plus how to turn just about any recipe into a vegan one!) She tells us, "I have a vegan website for strangers. For people I know, I cook vegan for parties and events without telling them it is vegan until after...People see what I eat and sometimes ask about it. Several saw what I did, ate stuff that I ate, found out vegan was more than alfalfa sprouts and tofu...and really great food too! They started learning about the facts...and they switched!" In response to other survey questions, she replies, "It is hard to be totally comfortable around people who torture animals for pleasure..." and "I always loved animals and respected them for their own beings...I don't believe in breeding animals for our pleasure either. But if an animal needs our help, we should help them."

Chris from Beijing, China and San Francisco, CA. tells us "I started a vegan club. This was a simple, easy way to meet other like-minded people and also those who are curious about veganism. I purposely made the club non-restrictive. We ONLY eat vegan, but non-vegans are totally welcome. I have always feared pot-lucks because I am inept at cooking. So I decided I would base my vegan club at a restaurant. Once a week, at a set time, with very little organization involved beyond notifying the restaurant to save us a table. I set up a blog to advertise it a bit, but frankly, it could be done with single static web pages and a Google calendar. Since it started, we've had an average of 10-12 people per dinner. I chose a veg restaurant that is good, but not expensive." Chris profoundly explains, "Where once I saw tremendous differences between say a rightwing Christian-Republican and leftwing atheist counter-cultural, anti-establishment hipster, now I just see two people who in their actions through a 24 hour day are remarkably similar. They vote differently, give money to different organizations, but the main impact on the planet is nearly indistinguishable, and their philosophy vis-a-vis most of the other life on the planet is exactly the same. Their words and beliefs both ring hollow in the face of the fact that they both partake (often knowingly) in the total exploitation of the planet's most gentle species. From a veal cow's point of view, there is no difference whatsoever between Al Gore, Barack Obama, George Bush, Chinese president Hu Jintao or the Dalai Lama. (Actually to be fair, I have a strong suspicion that Hu Jintao eats a vegetarian diet.)" Lastly from Chris, "I am opposed 100% to the continued existence of the 'pet industry' for many reasons, and every time I feed my cats, I feel the moral compromise being made. Feeding a rescued companion animal cat is perhaps the most common moral conflicts that a vegan encounters."