One million: the number of people in the United States who classify themselves as “vegan.” What is a vegan exactly? The dictionary definition states a vegan is “a person who does not eat or use animal products.” There is definitely a stigma associated with the word. Imagine never tasting your mom’s creamy macaroni and cheese again or never reaching for a bowl of ice cream. Imagine never wearing your cozy down jacket or wool socks ever again. Veganism may seem a little extreme or even unhealthy, and many people who hear the word “vegan” associate the word with something negative while others see it as a revolutionary lifestyle. There’s no doubt many people aren’t well educated on the matter, however.
.In recent years, veganism has steadily increased in popularity. Although it is commonly confused with vegetarianism, there are significant
…show more content…
I went into the sheep business when I was 9 years old, and it has now turned into my FFA project. I care about every animal I raise and try to ensure they are taken the best care of. I remember the tears welling up in my eyes when I had to say goodbye to my first lamb, with which I had a close bond; however, since a young age, I knew the difference between a pet and an animal raised for meat. I understand that an animal needs to be tagged, docked, sheared, and castrated in the most humane way possible for the animal’s welfare. PETA’s statement that I mentioned earlier implies that ranchers are doing the same practices, but PETA makes our methods seem cruel and inhumane. Although PETA and I are describing the same practices, the way each of us have phrased the actions of ranchers leaves a different image. It is our place to correct the misinformation that’s been put out and tell the other side of the story. We need to expound on the benefits and reasons of our practices instead of giving others the ability to put their own negative spin on