Intersectionality, in short, is a framework for understanding oppression. Ultimately, it allows us to apprehend the ways that multiple forms of inequality or disadvantage sometimes compound themselves and create obstacles that often are not understood among conventional ways of thinking. Veganism and LGBTQ+ activism share core principles and goals, including compassion, justice, and equality, which can be powerful when combined.

Shared values

Compassion

Both veganism and LGBTQ+ activism are deeply rooted in compassion. Whether that’s compassion for animals or humans, they both empathise with the oppression of living creatures. Veganism extends compassion to animals, while LGBTQ+ activism extends it to marginalised individuals. Therefore individuals who uphold both compassion in veganism and LGBTQ+ activism maintain high levels of empathy.

Justice
 

The goal of social justice is for full and equal participation of all groups in society. Social justice includes a vision of society in which the distribution of resources is equitable and all members are physically and psychologically safe and secure. Social justice involves social actors who have a sense of their agency as well as a sense of social responsibility toward and with others, their society and the broader world in which we live.
 

Oppression can affect both animals and LGBTQ+ individuals. Farming practices harm animals and contribute to environmental damage. Similarly, LGBTQ+ individuals often face discrimination in many areas of society—for example, in employment, healthcare and housing. Recognising these intersections helps advocate for wider social justice and supports recognition for policies that support both animal rights and human rights.

Equality

Equality refers to providing equal opportunities to everyone and protecting them from being discriminated against. There is a pursuit of equality in both movements. Veganism seeks to dismantle speciesism, while LGBTQ+ activism fights against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Both view all sentient beings as deserving of rights and respect.
 

Historical and cultural connections

Historical figures and movements
 

Alice Walker

Over the course of history, there have been many activists contributing to both the vegan and LGBTQ+ movement. Alice Walker is amongst those figures who was a feminist and animal rights advocate and highlighted the interconnectedness of these forms of oppression.

“Leaders of Earth appear to have abandoned their very senses… They murder humans and other animals forests and rivers and mountains every day they are in office and never seem to notice it. They eat and drink devastation.”—Alice Walker.

A key moment in history where the movements intersected was during the AIDS crisis. Many LGBTQ+ activists also supported the animal rights movement, emphasising the importance of compassion and solidarity as both movements faced significant challenges.

Prominent LGBTQ+ vegan activists
 

Many LGBTQ+ figures have chosen to use their voice to fight for the vegan movement and use their platforms to advocate for both causes. For example, chef Bryant Terry combines his passions for veganism and social justice, creating plant-based recipes that celebrate cultural diversity and advocate for food equity. Activist Jasmin Singer, co-host of the podcast ‘Our Hen House’, addresses the intersections of veganism, LGBTQ+ rights and feminism in her work.
 

Shared strategies

Both causes use shared strategies when it comes to advocacy and activism, such as grassroots organising, social media advocacy, and public demonstrations. By sharing resources and supporting each other’s campaigns, LGBTQ+ and vegan activists can amplify their impact, leading to greater awareness and policy changes that benefit both communities.

Read more Why I became vegan: 30 reasons from 30 people across Europe

Challenges and opportunities

Challenges

Despite their common goal of equality and ultimately a better world, both movements face their hurdles. Mainstream society can often be restrictive and invalidating towards these movements and LGBTQ+ vegans may struggle to find inclusive spaces that fully embrace both their identities. Addressing these issues requires an ongoing dialogue and efforts to grow and create welcoming and open environments for all individuals.

Opportunities for growth

Ensuring that LGBTQ+ spaces offer vegan options and promoting mental health campaigns are key growth opportunities. Education and collaboration can strengthen both movements, fostering a culture of empathy and solidarity. By working together, the vegan and LGBTQ+ communities can promote a world that is equal for all beings.

Vegan organisations can also focus on embracing LGBTQ+ individuals and offering them safe spaces. Promoting collaborative campaigns and initiatives, such as campaigns that promote veganism at Pride. Supporting LGBTQ+ vegans in the media as well as bringing awareness to brands with these ethics is a great way to open mainstream society’s view up to a more modern way of thinking about these movements. 

The intersectionality of veganism and LGBTQ+ activism highlights their shared values of compassion, justice and equality. Embracing intersectional activism allows us to advocate for equality amongst all beings, human and non-human, and ensure they are treated with the utmost respect. A unified approach can lead to meaningful change, creating a society that is more inclusive, compassionate and equitable.

If you enjoy our articles and want to read more of our content, check out the top 7 vegan restaurants in Germany for you to try this summer. Perhaps take a look at LGBTQ+ celebrities that you didn’t know were vegan. Or explore Vienna named world's most liveable city in 2024, for the third consecutive time.