Ask the Editor

When I tell my friends and family that we've become vegan and that I'm raising my two children vegan, some of them say I'm inflicting my beliefs on them and that I should let them decide if they want to be vegan when they're older. Do you have a good response to this? I'd love a strong comeback. - Cassandra

Cassandra,

A good comeback that reflects the issue back on to them is:
"If you think children should decide what they eat when they're old enough to understand their choices, then why are/were you forcing your kids to eat meat at such a young age? Aren't you inflicting YOUR beliefs on them?"

Article continues below

If they don't have children:
"All parents choose their children's lifestyle until they are old enough to make choices for themselves. It's no different with us vegans."

Another, perhaps more sarcastic, comeback (for when you're feeling snippy):
"I'd rather inflict good health on my children than heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, and obesity."

Remember that as vegan parents, most of us have made a very conscious decision to live healthier and more compassionate lives. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Do not let people make you feel that there is anything wrong or dangerous in raising vegan children.

Also, remember, that the reason people make comments like that is because they are afraid; afraid because they don't understand veganism as well as you do and aren't as sure as you are that it's a healthy choice. Go easy on people who are willing to be educated about raising vegan children. If they are going to be in your life and possibly babysitting for your children, they need to understand what you're doing and accept it.

Sponsors:

Got Recipes? We Want Them!
Submit yours today to win a prize!