I can see why that IS a valid question. And six years ago I might have said, "No, we shouldn't".
Stepping up on soap box.
I'm sure that we do need to discuss politics. And state our opinions. and inform and educate each other.
our main goal as vegans is to reduce the amount of animal exploitation. There is
a lot we can do individually. but there is a lot of objectives that require changes in public policy.
I can't remember which animal rights advocate suggested that the definition of veganism be modified to include being an animal rights activist. (I think it might have been Peter Singer. ) One 100% vegan can do X amount. but if that one vegan could convert one person to eat less meat each year - well the math is beyond me but its some multiple of X. And if that one person also became an advocate....
Sometimes (not often enough) people will ask me what they (as individuals) can do to reduce climate change. I tell them to go vegan. then they ask me what else. and I say vote Blue. I think the same goes with animal rights. By going vegan we can live according to our values. by voting we Might be able to affect greater changes.
I've been looking up vegan accomplishments to add dates to
@Indian Summer 's calendar project. And it has reminded me of all the accomplishment that have been made by activists.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
― Margaret Mead
Cory Booker is the only vegan in the Senate. He is working on a bill that will phase out CAFOs. Not a win for the Abolitionists but a win for Animal Welfare.
I just learned that the farmers in India are involved in the biggest worker stike in history. the issues they have are nearly identical to the issues American farmers have. We can't just not eat chicken. but we need to change laws, rules, and regulations to promote ethical and fair practices. For the chicken and the people.
Finally, we do not operate in a vacuum. Plant-based, climate change, waste reduction all over lap in the big picture of living responsibly.
OK, stepping off my soap box.