by Lydia Green, as appeared in Minnesota Veg Living, Issue 10

April 29, 2024

I did not know what to expect when I volunteered to be co-chair for the 2023 Twin Cities Veg Fest, but knew I wanted to increase my involvement in the vegan/plant-based movement. In the end, it’s a role I’m glad I took on. The 2023 festival wasn’t just a celebration of veganism; it was a testament to our work building an inclusive community and increasing awareness of the difference a plant-based lifestyle can have on the world around us.

Welcoming Exhibitors and Attendees of Color

All of us on the committee put effort into welcoming exhibitors and attendees of color. The once homogenous sea of faces has transformed into a vibrant tapestry representing a multitude of cultures and backgrounds. It was heartening to contribute to this evolution. Forty-two exhibitors, over 40% of the total, identified as Black, Indigenous, or Members of the Global Majority. From Black-owned vegan restaurants to Latinx operated food trucks, Twin Cities Veg Fest has become a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and celebrated.

As I wandered through the various booths, I couldn’t help but notice the sense of community. Happy Lance Brunious, a jazz musician who performed at the festival this year, shared, “The festival brings people from across the Twin Cities to Harriet Island. It breaks down barriers of race and economics, bringing people together around their love of food and music.” Compassionate Action for Animals, the nonprofit that organizes the festival, has trained staff and volunteers to use a range of strategies to attract a diverse crowd. One result: the number of attendees who identify as people of the global majority has grown from 12% three years ago to more than 20% today. 

New Activities Attract New Attendees

The organization also keeps adding activities to attract new attendees. The incorporation of the Health Corridor and the Let’s Beat Breast Cancer Rally organized by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) was a very impactful new aspect of the festival. The Let’s Beat Breast Cancer Rally highlighted the importance of spreading knowledge and breaking down barriers. It was amazing to incorporate this aspect into the festival and showcase the link between diet and breast cancer prevention. 

The Health Corridor exhibitors provided festival-goers with valuable insights into how a plant-based lifestyle can contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of cancer and other common diseases. It was heartening to see Twin Cities Veg Fest used as a platform to address critical health issues, demonstrating that veganism goes beyond just personal choices — it’s a powerful tool for societal change and wellbeing.

Surprise Guest: Tabitha Brown

Amidst the whirlwind of activities, one of the unexpected highlights of Twin Cities Veg Fest was the surprise visit from the beloved Tabitha Brown. The renowned actress, vegan advocate, and social media sensation graced the event with her infectious energy and warmth. As she walked through the festival grounds, fans gathered around her, eager to catch a glimpse of the woman whose online presence has inspired countless individuals to embrace a plant-based lifestyle. Her visit became a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all that the journey towards a plant-based lifestyle is not just about what we eat but about the positive impact we can make on the world around us.

A Testament to a Diverse Community

Twin Cities Veg Fest 2023 was more than just a celebration of plant-based living; it was a testament to how diverse the vegan community truly is. As I left the festival grounds, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of hope and optimism for the future of veganism — a future that is diverse, inclusive, and driven by a shared commitment to healing people, animals, and the planet.

Lydia’s Bio

Lydia Green has been vegan for over seven years. During this time, she has volunteered with several animal rights organizations in various ways. Recently, she was the co-chair for the 2023 Twin Cities Veg Fest. Lydia also serves as the board secretary for the CAA Board of Directors. She currently resides in Hawai’i, where she manages a farm sanctuary and works full-time with rescued farm animals.