If there’s one thing we love here at Our Hen House, it’s new ways to spread the word about the plight of animals, and how we can each get involved with changing the world for them. Unless each of us uses his or her own voice to let others in on the horrors of animal exploitation, and the joys of veganism, this is never going to get done. Flip side? If each of us makes an effort to speak up and speak out, whenever possible, we’ve got this thing covered.
But, as we all know, finding those willing ears, and saying the right things, isn’t always easy. If you know someone who you think might be open to trying on vegan for size, one possible way to get through to them might be to recommend that they sign up for the PAN Vegan Pledge. This program, recently imported to the United States from Great Britain, is comprised of a network of presenters who provide, free of charge, five weekly meetings to support the efforts of anyone who has taken a pledge to go vegan for 30 days. The meetings consist of cooking demonstrations, along with speakers addressing environmental, ethical, health, and practical issues. So far this year, PAN programs in the U.S. have taken place in Philadelphia, Phoenixville, PA, and Chapel Hill, NC. There are programs coming up in Northern New Jersey, New York City, the DC-Metro area, Chippewa Valley, WI, and Chicago.
In addition to the 5 in-person meetings, PAN aims to supply everything a budding vegan would need to make the transition as easy, seamless, and delicious as possible. It’s all very hands-on and includes a personal mentor who is an experienced vegan, optional social events, and a cruelty-free care package.
One of my favorite things about PAN is that it is so grassroots. That means that those of us who care about animal rights and mainstreaming veganism can do far more than just find people who might be interested in this program. If you’re near any of those locations, they are looking for volunteers. And, even better, if you’re not in any of those locations, they are looking for people to spearhead programs in new areas.