Pride Month is here, so we’re recognizing the standout ethical pioneers who are advocating for equal rights for all.
Z. Zane McNeill, June 23, 2020
Vegans are a diverse bunch. Among them, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer, intersexual, and asexual/aromantic (LGBTQIA) folks have been integral to the movement for animal liberation. In addition to fighting for animal rights, these rad vegans also have a history of working towards consistent anti-oppression and fighting against all forms of social injustice, including toward specific communities such as queer, trans, Black, and Indigenous. In honor of Pride Month, we’re highlighting just a few of the many advocates, artists, and scholars who are making a difference for the animals and others. If you aren’t following their inspiring work, you will want to now.
1. LoriKim Alexander
This 25-year vegan and out lesbian is an anthropologist and trained biologist who fights against environmental racism and for Black Indigenous liberation. Until recently, she was the co-director of BlackCuse Pride, an organization by and for trans and queer Black Indigenous folks. Among other vegan festivals, Alexander has shared her wisdom as a speaker at the worldwide Veganism of Color conference and Black Vegfest in New York.
2. Suzy Gonzalez
A queer pansexual Xicana artist, zinester, and curator, Gonzalez has had her art exhibited in galleries across the country, including the Presa House Gallery, R Gallery, and Lady Base Gallery in San Antonio, TX; MACLA in San Jose, CA; and RedLine Contemporary in Denver, CO. She co-publishes the intersectional feminist zine Yes, Ma’am; co-organizes the San Anto Zine Fest, which brings together independent media; and is half of the artist’s collective Dos Mestizx. Her art pieces Tasty Chick (2013) and Miss Drumstick (2013) were influenced by the scholarship of ecofeminist and animal-rights activist Carol Adams.
