A Day in the Life of Vegan Activists

There are stereotypes of typical millennials. But here, we have young people who are mindful and selfless. Thinkers and doers. Defenders of helpless, voiceless animals. They may be young, but they are old souls, driving the movement for compassionate living. And they are slowly affecting how society thinks of what they eat, and how they live.

This group is aiming to influence others to have a heart for the planet’s most vulnerable beings, the helpless, innocent, voiceless creatures: Goats, chickens, pigs, cows, dogs and even sea creatures. The latest global trends show young people have gotten the attention of multinational companies, encouraging these companies to offer meat-free products or meat substitutes in the market, products with “Not tested on animals” or “cruelty free” badge; vegan brands and products. Even cruelty-free products, items devoid of animal ingredients and are not tested on animals, such as vegan bags, shoes or clothing, are now going mainstream as well.

This group is aiming to influence others to have a heart for the planet’s most vulnerable beings, the helpless, innocent, voiceless creatures: Goats, chickens, pigs, cows, dogs and even sea creatures. The latest global trends show young people have gotten the attention of multinational companies, encouraging these companies to offer meat-free products or meat substitutes in the market, products with “Not tested on animals” or “cruelty free” badge; vegan brands and products. Even cruelty-free products, items devoid of animal ingredients and are not tested on animals, such as vegan bags, shoes or clothing, are now going mainstream as well.

Here in Baguio City, we witness these youths stand up for their cause, imploring the public to have an open mind. These young people have gone beyond respecting fellow human beings, and have widened their consciousness and compassion. They are showing the world that one can still live a fulfilling, enjoyable life without supporting the torture, exploitation, and killing of sentient beings. These are the youths of The Metro Manila Animal Save (whose mission has been to offer acts of kindness towards the animals moments before they are slaughtered) and and the Anonymous for the Voiceless, whose activities include the “Cube of Truth”. This is their mantra: May all beings be free. And they will continue to do this until all cages and slaughterhouses are empty. Their cruelty-free lifestyle includes a diet sourced only from plants, no ingredients derived from animals, and no animals were harmed in the making of their sustenance, clothing, accessories, shoes, bags, and all other items that constitute the material elements of their lifestyle.

During the weekend this group spent in Baguio City, they also dined in a vegan restaurant called Ahs-Wes, in Nevada Square, 2 Loakan Road. The place is owned by young vegan chef Lindsel Ekid Bakidol. Ahs-Wes, formerly named Azotea Greens situated along Session Road, offers creative, cruelty-free dishes sourced only from plants. You can help end the suffering of innocent, defenceless beings. Message metromanilaanimalsave@gmail.com (or Metro Manila Animal Save Facebook Page), and Anonymous for the Voiceless Metro Manila avmmph@gmail.com, and ask how you can help.

“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead