Why You Should Take the Meatless Pledge
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and, traditionally, a big roasted turkey. But what if this year your holiday meal truly reflected compassion? That’s the idea behind APNM’s “Meatless Thanksgiving Pledge,” a simple yet meaningful commitment to forgo meat, especially turkey, at your holiday table.
What is the Meatless Thanksgiving Pledge?
APNM’s Meatless Thanksgiving Pledge is a personal commitment to enjoy a plant-based meal on the holiday. It is a way to celebrate without supporting the industrial farming practices often associated with turkey and other meat production.
And we’re here to help! Our Vegan Starter Guide, blog, and recipes page, are filled with ideas for planning a compassionate, turkey-free feast.
How to Take the Pledge and Get Started.
Making a commitment is easy. Here are a few steps to get you started:
1. Sign APNM’s Pledge: Click on this link to sign APNM’s official pledge committing to a meat-free Thanksgiving meal. You can also share your commitment with friends and family on social media by posting APNM’s Meatless Thanksgiving Pledge Badge.
2. Collect Resources: Once you’ve made the commitment, visit APNM’s PBE Program website to search our free resources. Don’t forget to share these resources with others and get them involved!
Why Make a Commitment This Year?
Embracing a plant-based holiday has a profound, positive impact that extends far beyond your dinner plate. Here are three reasons to consider:
1. Animal Compassion: The pledge is a peaceful protest against the exploitation of animals within the industrial food system. By choosing to skip turkey, you are standing up for a more humane, ethical approach to food.
2. Environmental Impact: Factory farming takes a heavy toll on our planet. By choosing a plant-based meal, you are actively reducing the negative environmental impact associated with industrial animal agriculture, including lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced water use.
3. Support for Workers and Communities: The pledge also signifies your support for a fair food system that benefits farm workers and rural communities, moving toward a more just and sustainable food future for all.
Delicious Alternatives to Turkey
Plant-based Thanksgiving main dishes are hearty, festive, and bursting with flavor! Here are some delicious, cruelty-free options for your Thanksgiving table:
- Vegan Roasts: Options like the popular Tofurkey roasts have been favorites, providing a familiar-looking, savory centerpiece. You can also try the Quorn Turkey.
- Lentil/Vegetable Loaves: These dense, savory alternatives offer rich, complex flavors and a satisfying texture that stands up beautifully to gravy. Try this recipe.
- Stuffed Seasonal Vegetables: Consider stuffed acorn squash or other seasonal fall vegetables for a wholesome, gorgeous, and delicious meal. See “Fall Essentials” for ideas.
- Savory Casserole and Pies: Dishes like a gourmet mushroom Wellington, a lentil shepherd’s pie, or a butternut squash lasagna are festive, flavorful, and make for a showstopping main course. Check out APNM’s plant-based recipes for other ideas.
Other Meatless Thanksgiving Resources
Many organizations, like Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary and Shamayim Jewish Animal Advocacy, actively promote a pledge.
Michelle Cehn’s World of Vegan offers an entire Vegan Thanksgiving Guide, including a menu with recipes.
Ready to make a change? Taking APNM’s Meatless Thanksgiving Pledge is a wonderful way to bring true compassion and sustainability to your holiday celebration.
