being vegan as well as being able to pay for more sustainable options like clothes from sustainable brands, eco-friendly cleaner, buying vegan and cruelty-free skincare/makeup/toothpaste/etc, or just plainly trying to shop more sustainable is a PRIVILEGE.

sustainable companies tend to be more expensive and inaccessible, especially for bipoc, low income families, as well as those who are plus size. cheaper and more unethical companies like to prey on these groups since most sustainable brands appeal only to the white middle class.

the sustainability movement needs to involve bipoc and be more inclusive for low income families. not everyone is close to organic food shops or can afford to shop at a low waste store. it is a privilege to be able to chose to live sustainably !

to combate climate change, people need to recognize the racist and classist attitudes that flow easily within the movement. system racism, capitalism, the socioeconomic divide, oppression, homelessness, health care needs, and redlining are all connected !

don’t ever guilty for not being a vegan, not being able to use a metal straw, or not being able to go plastic free if it is not possible for you to do. do the best that you can, that’s all that matters. choice is a privilege and i recognize that and i’m so beyond blessed.

also ! i need to point out that the white middle class tends to be the main faces we see fighting for sustainably. please remember there are hundreds of bipoc going vegan, promoting sustainablity, or doing their best to save the planet. lower income and bipoc families....

....in general leave a smaller carbon footprint. please also remember that lower income families NEED to shop at thrift stores whereas some people simply go for cute clothes. please keep that in mind, as well as shopping considerately toward the plus size population—

taking from the already tiny selection of clothing so you can wear a baggy shirt makes it harder for us to find clothes that actually fit, especially when plus size clothing is harder to find in stores with affordable prices and styles to fit every preference, so please be kind

one last note ! if you are vegan, please do not shame others for not being vegan, especially bipoc. let’s decolonize veganism https://wearyourvoicemag.com/white-vegans-accessibility-poc/

if you can shop sustainably or thrift or go vegan or just do your part for the cause, then do it ! but please remember your privledge as well as being aware of the issues that can revolve around those involved in the movement :))

really good thread on insta by @ deardarlingdesignstudio to check out !