elected officials

70+ Elected Officials Put Meat-Free Eating on the Political Map for US VegWeek

smcdonaldCampaigns, Outreach, Veg Eating Leave a Comment

There are 52 weeks in a year. Why not make at least one of them meat-free? That’s the idea behind COK’s US VegWeek campaign, which launched in 2009 thanks to the inspiration of Maryland State Senator Jamie Raskin.

Sen. Raskin was the first lawmaker to sign our 7-Day VegPledge, proudly noting that his participation helps “align my morals with my menu.”  His continued support has helped the campaign grow each year, empowering countless other lawmakers and thousands of consumers from coast to coast to make kinder, greener, and healthier food choices.

This year, Sen. Raskin is one of more than 70 elected officials – on the federal, state, and local levels – who are taking our 7-Day VegPledge as a way to discover the many benefits and flavors of vegetarian eating. Here’s what a few of them told us about why they are participating:

“I’m a vegetarian everyday and [US VegWeek] is my birthday week. You can bet your broccoli I’m in!”  US Senator Cory Booker (D-New Jersey)

elected officials“I’m delighted to take the VegPledge. Research shows that a plant-based diet can offer significant health benefits, including weight loss, lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and lower incidence of heart disease. A plant-based diet is also good for the environment by reducing carbon emissions in our efforts to fight climate change.” US Representative Henry Waxman (D-California, District 33)

“Vegetables and fruit are essential for a healthy diet. I am excited to take part in US VegWeek to help encourage others to pursue a healthier lifestyle. US VegWeek reminds those of us who are not vegetarians to be more aware of our physical health, as well as the health of our planet.” US Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas, District 30)

Moreover, 16 jurisdictions are making US VegWeek official celebrations in their communities through proclamations and resolutions – from Washington, DC to Tucson, Arizona to Ann Arbor, Michigan to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and more.

US VegWeek coincides with Earth Day to offer a powerful message that one of the most important steps each of us can take to protect the planet – and animals – is to choose vegetarian foods.

More than 5,000 people nationwide are taking the 7-Day VegPledge — and we’ve got events and specials all over the map to help you celebrate. Join the fun today! 

elected officials

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *