“Veganism - an Ethical Lifestyle Choice”

17 May 2015

“Veganism - an Ethical Lifestyle Choice” will be presented by a panel of members of The Asheville Vegan Society, at the Sunday May 17th meeting of the Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville, 2:00-3:30 PM at The Friends Meeting House located at 227 Edgewood Road, Asheville 28804. The panel will include a professional nutritionist, an environmentalist and an animal rights activist and will be led by Joe Walsh, President of The Asheville Vegan Society. They will discuss reasons for choosing Veganism, including the health benefits of a well-planned , plant-based diet; the environmental impact of one’s food choices; food equity and ending world hunger; and the rights of animals.

Joe Walsh describes himself as “your average vegan.” His journey to veganism began as a young child after he visited a slaughterhouse. He has been a vegetarian for most of his life and a vegan for the past 20 years. He is a small business owner, former bench-press champion and current odd-lift competitor. He is a co-founder of The Asheville Vegan Society (2005). Until recently, he helped run Veggieville, a small private "farmed animal" sanctuary in upstate South Carolina. He marvels at the wonderful unique personalities and social interactions of his animal companions. He has scratched his head many times when people ask, "Where do you get your protein?" He has a bachelor’s degree in Business from The College of William and Mary. Joe is raising his two children in Asheville. When they are grown, he will take his surfboard, dogs and cats, and move to the coast where he plans tol open a vegan hot dog stand.

Following the presentation there will be time for questions and group discussion. Following the meeting The Asheville Vegan Society will provide vegan snacks and beverages. Plan to stay and taste these treats. All are welcome!

The Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville is an educational, philosophical, humanist, non-theistic alternative to traditional religions. It is affiliated with the American Ethical Union, and the American Humanist Association, both of which are members of the International Humanist and Ethical Union. Members are inspired by the ideal that the supreme aim of human life is working to create a more humane society. Their commitment is to the worth and dignity of the individual and to treating each human being so as to bring out the best in him or her.

For more information contact: www.meetup.com/Ethical-Humanist-Society-of-Asheville, www.aeu.org, ethicalsocietyasheville@gmail.com or 828 687-7759.