Getting Over Stigma Surrounding the “V” word

I do not eat meat. I do not eat dairy. I do not eat eggs. I do not eat honey. I am passionate about my vegan lifestyle and what I stand for. However, every time I want to talk about it, I’m afraid. Every time I grocery shop with my mom and we are standing in front of the deli, every time my roommate makes tacos for dinner and every time I see a friend take a bite of a burger at a fast food restaurant, I want to say something. But I can’t, because I’m afraid. I shouldn’t be, but I am.

There’s a certain stigma surrounding the “v” word. People don’t own merchandise promoting veganism because they are terrified of the backlash.  Articles are written avoiding the word “vegan” in the title because people are probably not going to click on it if it’s there. I went to a festival called “veg expo” and was told that if they had titled it “vegan expo,” less people would have come. An exhibition all about veganism couldn’t even call itself vegan.

What is wrong with being vegan, really? Why is it so negative? I’m saving the lives of animals by choosing not to eat them, and I’m saving about 3,000 gallons of water every time I choose to consume a vegan meal instead of a “normal” one. What is wrong with having a strong immune system and being able to properly digest food? We are told that fruits and vegetables are good for you, but when they’re most of what I eat in a day, it’s weird and looked down upon.

The question I get repeatedly about all of this is, “Where do you get your protein?” Now, I understand that this question is harmless, but I can’t stand how much I hear it. Why do Americans care about protein so much? People assume I am deficient. In reality, I reach my protein goal of 50 grams every day, which is a few grams more than the recommended daily amount for a woman. I have never had an issue with my protein intake, and the plant-based proteins that I ingest aren’t high in saturated fats like animal proteins are.

I often wonder why I can’t proudly scream at the top of my lungs about my passion like everyone else can. I feel healthier without all of the animal byproducts. I feel better knowing I’m doing something that has a positive impact on this planet. I’ve saved lives, saved water and saved myself. Yet, I get backlash, I get teased, and I’m considered in the wrong. Maybe that’s why I’m always so afraid to just be me.