About VegWeek

Why VegWeek?

There are 52 weeks in a year. Why not make at least one of them vegan? That’s the idea behind VegWeek, an annual campaign empowering thousands of people to pledge to choose plant-based foods for at least seven days as a way to discover the many benefits and flavors of vegan eating. Every time we choose a vegan meal, we can help protect our health, the planet and animals.

How Did VegWeek Get Started?

Animal Outlook first launched VegWeek in 2009 with inspiration from then Maryland Senator Jamie Raskin – now a U.S. Congressman – who commented during a media interview that a simple way each of us could help protect the planet is to choose vegan foods at least one week out of the year. Since Rep. Raskin represented the Maryland District where Animal Outlook is based, we reached out to him about his idea, and together we created the first-ever Takoma Park VegWeek celebration — and he was the first person to officially sign up for our seven-day VegPledge.

Energized by his vegan diet, which he refers to as “aligning my morals with my menu,” Rep. Raskin continues to encourage others to make kinder, greener, and healthier food choices — and he’s helped VegWeek reach thousands of people nationwide.

Congressman Raskin is in good company. States, counties and cities have proclaimed a week in April (coinciding with Earth Week) as "US VegWeek", encouraging residents, restaurants, schools, grocery stores, organizations, and other institutions to join public officials in choosing and offering a greater variety of vegan food throughout the area. Millions of people around the world are touting the many benefits of choosing more plant-based meals. Are you already one of them? Or are you curious about trying it out? Join the conversation at our VegWeek Facebook Group.

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