Have fun planning a variety of events. Some ideas are book discussion groups, animal sanctuary visits, outdoor hikes and vegan cookie swaps during the holidays. Look for local vegan experts and ask them to hold a workshop or give a talk to the group. If you can’t find anyone, do one yourself ! Teach a cooking class, talk about how you went vegan or just share your hobby. People love to learn and you probably know more than you realize.
Reach out to local businesses like tea shops, cafes and bookstores in the community about using their space for different events. The chances are that they will say yes. What business owner wouldn’t want a large group frequenting their establishment? Not only will you be helping their business, but you will be planting tiny vegan seeds out in the world because people will hear you talking and want to know what it is that you’re so passionate about.
Bake sales may sound very 1970’s suburban PTA, but they’re an excellent form of activism. Not only is it showing the world how delicious vegan baked goods are, but it’s an opportunity to raise money for animal charities in the community. My group’s bake sales bring in around $1,000 each and we donate the money to local animal shelters and rescue groups. World Wide Vegan Bake Sale has been taking the world by storm over the past few years, and their website has great resources for people just starting out.
Don’t be afraid to set up ground rules for the group if necessary. Sometimes things run better with a few rules in place and it can take some of the stress out of dealing with difficult members. (And unfortunately, you’re bound to have one or two difficult members.). There will always be people who will RSVP yes to every event and not show up, so tell your members that if something comes up, they should let you or the host know out of courtesy.
I always remind people that my group is supposed to be a safe haven for vegans, as well as non-vegans who are curious about the vegan lifestyle. I’ve had vegetarians come to potlucks and try to argue about dairy with vegans, and once an omnivore tried to debate the subject of “carbs” with me. And I also became aware of some vegan members lecturing non-vegan spouses of members about their diet. I believe that vegan communities should be inclusive and welcoming in order to show how joyful a vegan lifestyle can be. I now have a disclaimer that I put into event descriptions stating that lecturing and debating is not allowed, however, healthy discussion is always welcome. The goal of my group’s potlucks is to relax, eat delicious food and enjoy each other’s company. A community is greater than the sum of its members. Community can provide companionship, solace, and inspiration. We have helped animals in need, hosted some fantastic speakers, eaten amazing food, laughed with each other, and built lasting friendships.
CHICKPEA MAGAZINE FALL 2012
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