Maybe it’s because I’m gay, but I’m constantly interested in learning more about the connections between gay rights and animal rights. This is a subject I actually wrote about for Satya Magazine several years ago. (By the way, if you love Satya like I do, you’ll be happy to know that the co-founder, Martin Rowe, will be on our podcast tomorrow.)
One group that is bringing together LGBT folks and their allies with vegan goodness is VegOut, a NYC-based social group that frequently gets together for potlucks and outings of all kinds. One thing I appreciate about this group is that it is a safe space for folks to get together with like-minded people and just be who they are, no questions asked.
Another group bringing together queer folks and their friends with animal issues is LGBT Compassion, a San Francisco-based activist organization speaking up for animal rights, civil rights, and various other social justice issues. According to their website:
“We feel that the LGBT community, having experienced discrimination, oppression and suffering ourselves, having special health issues, and often having unique bonds with companion animals, should be open to learning and helping others who may not be able to speak up for themselves – whether human or non-human.”
There’s also the Facebook group, Gay Vegan Network.
I’ve heard of other groups throughout the country (and beyond!) focusing on providing a forum (either online or in person) for LGBT vegans (and friends). If you have a favorite resource that is working to bring together these two movements — be it an article, book, organization, etc. — please leave a comment below and share it with us!