Having
Effective Conversations
About Veganism
by Alora Middleton Hale
As vegans, it is almost impossible not to have conversations with others about veganism. Sometimes we’re the ones to bring it up, other times it’s a friend or family member who gets the conversation going. Maybe it’s just me, but the phrase, “oh, you’re vegan?” can elicit a little bit of fear within me. Sure, I can talk about veganism and what I eat and why, but what if the person asking isn’t satisfied with my answers? What if they have more questions? What if they *gulp* have arguments?
So, what can we do in these situations? How can we better prepare ourselves for the conversations that will inevitably come up? Well, because I know I’m not the only one who has experienced this, I did some research.
Stay Level-Headed It can be easy to become frustrated, but it’s important to remember that the person you are conversing with isn’t going to be any more likely to agree with you if you are speaking angrily. Being combative will be met with more of the same.
I am not a fan of confrontation, and debating is not my strong suit. When I do find myself in situations where I must defend my position, I often find that my mind goes blank. That can be very frustrating! Especially when the topic, like veganism, is so important and something I am so passionate about.
VEGWORLD
If the person you are speaking with has an argument for everything, stay calm. Instead of reacting with anger or annoyance, listen to what they have to say and respond logically and respectfully. Arguing back won’t get you anywhere.
26
November/December 2021
