“I’m a vegan. I think it’s the right way to live. I think it’s consistent with a philosophy that values life.” by Angela Davis

Vegan Soul Food .

Plant

Based

Diet

for Health

Why do African American need plant-based diet?

African-Americans can greatly benefit from pursuing a plant-based diet, or “Black vegan food,” as a means of reclaiming their health, heritage, and environment. Historically, traditional African diets were predominantly plant-based, rich in whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. However, systemic inequalities and limited access to healthy food have contributed to higher rates of chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension within the African-American community. Adopting a plant-based diet not only offers a path to better health outcomes, but it also honors the cultural legacy of nutrient-rich, plant-centered meals that sustained generations before the influence of processed and animal-based foods. Moreover, by choosing a vegan lifestyle, African-Americans can take a stand for environmental justice, as plant-based eating reduces the ecological footprint and addresses the impact of industrial farming, which disproportionately affects communities of color. Black veganism is not just a diet—it’s a movement that combines wellness, cultural empowerment, and social justice, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Rd, Alyssa Pike. “A Simple Guide to Plant-Based Eating.” Food Insight, 5 Apr. 2023, foodinsight.org/what-does-eating-a-plant-based-diet-mean.