Non-Vegan Wisdom: Hilarious (and Sometimes Harmful) Advice for Vegans

As a vegan, I’ve heard it all. From the classic “where do you get your protein?” to deeply personal critiques of my lifestyle, the “wisdom” offered by non-vegans is often both amusing and disrespectful. These suggestions are constant reminders of the microaggressions against vegans we navigate daily. This curated list showcases the real-life, often absurd non-vegan advice for vegans that activists encounter, aiming to spark dialogue and encourage collective resilience in the face of judgment.

These examples serve not just to entertain but to highlight the pervasive nature of microaggressions against vegans and the emotional labor required of activists daily. Before diving into the specifics of this “wisdom,” a critical note on its impact:

Disclaimer: Real-Life Experiences of Harassment: This compilation features verbatim examples of comments—many of which were directed at activists during public actions—and includes bullying, intimidation, and verbally violent language. We present these instances of vegan harassment to acknowledge the reality of confrontational activism. While the presentation is satirical, the harmful impact of these words is serious. It is crucial to remember that these examples reflect specific encounters and are not intended to represent the views of all non-vegans.

Real-Life Examples of Absurd Non-Vegan Advice for Vegans:

I created this list from comments and “advice” I have received firsthand while engaging in animal rights activism, including protesting at public events like Ribfest. I’m sharing these real-life interactions for two reasons: full transparency about the reality of being a vegan activist, and to ensure anyone facing this kind of absurdity knows they are not alone. By openly documenting this problem, we can call out the pervasive nature of vegan harassment and the absurdity of these microaggressions.

The “Consume Animal Products” Argument (The Direct Challenge)

These suggestions directly attack the core of veganism, often focusing on missing nutrients or the immediate gratification of meat.

• “Get a burger.”
• “Get more protein.”
• “Focus on ‘bacon’.”
• “Where do you get your B12?” (The most common specific nutrient attack.)
• “You need meat to build real muscle.”

Conformity & Dehumanization (The Personal Attack)

These comments aim to discredit the person, not the argument, by attacking their health, appearance, mental state, or lifestyle choices.

• “Get a wash.”
• “Take pills.”
• “All vegans look sickly.”
• “You look pale/sickly (or too skinny/unhealthy).”
• “You are crazy & extreme.”
• “You are not nice.”

The “Go Away” Command (The Demand for Silence)

These phrases attempt to dismiss the activist and negate the validity of their presence or cause.

• “Get a job,” “Get a life,” or “Go home.”
• “Acknowledge the importance of their middle fingers.”
• “Get hit by a car.” (A shocking example of verbal violence.)
• “Why aren’t you focusing on world hunger/human issues instead?” (The “Bigger Problems” deflection.)

Absurd & Illogical Demands (The Reductio ad Absurdum)

These demands attempt to make the ethical stance seem impossible, hypocritical, or overly complicated, often by moving goalposts.

• “Stop wearing leather (all kinds).”
• “Stop eating avocados.”
• “Stop walking on the pavement.”
• “Only exhale.”
• “List every plant you eat.”
• “Acknowledge them as the biggest animal abusers.”
• “What about plants feeling pain?” (The common deflection.)

Laughter vs. Harm: The Weight of Words on Mental Health

While this list may seem humorous, it’s crucial to remember that bullying and violence are serious issues with the potential to severely impact someone’s mental health. The examples here focus on verbal abuse and microaggressions, but it is important to acknowledge that physical harassment and assault against activists can also occur. Both verbal and physical forms of abuse must be treated seriously and never dismissed. Recognizing the profound impact words can have on mental health, it’s crucial to provide support tailored to individual needs. One resource is helplines such as In Defense of Animals, which offer online chats/texts/calls. I deeply respect animal rights activists and the challenges they face and have to deal with in a way that is helpful for them and others. Collective resilience fosters significant growth and improvement, but this effort must be coupled with safety. Learn more about safeguarding your identity during activism.

Why Do Some Non-Vegans Harass Vegans?

The Inner Conflict: How Cognitive Dissonance Fuels Vegan Harassment

The reasons behind some non-vegans harassing vegans are complex and multifaceted. One key factor is cognitive dissonance. Many people who consume animal products may experience some level of discomfort or guilt, even subconsciously, about the ethical implications of their dietary choices. Seeing vegans can trigger this dissonance, leading to defensive reactions like harassment to alleviate that inner conflict.

How the Threat to Identity and Social Belonging Trigger Vegan Harassment

Furthermore, threats to identity can play a significant role. Many deeply intertwine their dietary habits with their self-image and social circles. Veganism challenges these established norms and can pose a threat to their sense of self and belonging. This can lead to feelings of resentment and a desire to defend their own choices by attacking those who challenge them.

Projecting Insecurities Onto Vegans

Some non-vegans may project their own anxieties or insecurities about their dietary choices onto vegans. They may perceive vegans as judgmental or superior, leading to resentment and a desire to “put them in their place.”

The Role of Social Dominance Orientation in Vegan Harassment

Research suggests a correlation between social dominance orientation (a preference for hierarchical social structures) and negative attitudes toward vegans. Individuals with strong social dominance orientations may view veganism as a challenge to the existing social order and react with hostility.

Lack of Understanding or Education: Misinformation and Stereotypes

Many people simply lack a deep understanding of veganism and its ethical and environmental implications. Misinformation and stereotypes about vegans are widespread, leading to prejudice and discrimination.

Moving Towards a More Inclusive Society: The Benefits of Openly Discussing Vegan Harassment

Openly discussing the reasons behind vegan harassment is crucial. This allows us to move towards a more compassionate and understanding society. By identifying the underlying psychological and social factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the issue. We can then use this knowledge to develop more effective strategies for addressing and mitigating harassment. It also allows us to address the underlying issues of speciesism and the normalization of animal exploitation.

The Importance of Openly Discussing Vegan Harassment

Promoting Empathy and Compassion

Understanding the motivations behind the harassment, even if they are not justifiable, can foster greater empathy and compassion towards those who engage in such behavior. This can help to bridge the divide between vegans and non-vegans and create a more respectful and understanding dialogue.

Challenging Misconceptions

Discussing the reasons for harassment can help to challenge harmful stereotypes about both vegans and non-vegans. It can help to dispel myths and promote a more nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding dietary choices and ethical beliefs.

Promoting a More Inclusive Society

By understanding the factors that contribute to harassment, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and tolerant society where individuals are free to make their dietary choices without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Protecting the Well-being of Vegans:

By acknowledging and addressing the psychological and social factors that contribute to harassment, we can better support and protect the well-being of vegans who may experience these challenges.

A Note on Harassment and Support Resources

It’s important to emphasize that not all non-vegans engage in harassment towards vegans. However, these are some of the psychological and social factors that can contribute to such behavior. This information is for general knowledge and discussion purposes only. Harassment of any kind is unacceptable. If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment, please reach out to support resources in your community.

Attributions and Acknowledgements

If you are the source of any of these phrases and would like to be credited on this blog, please inform me. However, it’s important to acknowledge that some of these phrases may have originated independently within the broader vegan animal rights activist community.

“Nonviolence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction.”

– Mahatma Gandhi

Interested in more things vegan? Check out A Guide to Everything Else Vegan to explore the many topics of veganism.
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