Weekly Newsletter from Christian Vegetarian Association CVA - November 8, 2026
From Christian Vegetarian Association (CVA)

  1. Avoiding Labels
  2. All-Creatures.Org Newsletter
  3. Merchandise for the Cost of Shipping

1. Avoiding Labels

Previously, I discussed why accusing people of various "isms," such as sexism and racism, is generally unproductive. People are complex, and their beliefs are usually shaped by multiple concerns and considerations. They are likely to resent name-calling that they perceive as simplistic, inaccurate, and potentially harmful. Rather than presume to know the motivations behind people's beliefs and actions, it is better to focus on their consequences.

Consider, for example, speciesism. It is entirely appropriate to discuss the concept—what it means and why it seems so prevalent in our society. We can then explain how speciesism has facilitated enormous harm to nonhumans and, possibly, to humans as well.

However, there are good reasons to avoid accusing someone of being speciesist. First, although many people make personal choices or hold beliefs that are consistent with speciesism, most claim to care about nonhumans. They are unlikely to believe that their choices and beliefs are motivated by disregard for nonhumans. Second, whether people regard nonhumans as inferior or worthy of contempt is ultimately less important than the consequences of their beliefs and actions. From the perspective of nonhuman victims, the critical question is whether those beliefs and actions cause harm. Third, many people proudly acknowledge being speciesist. They believe they are superior to nonhumans and do not consider being called speciesist an insult. Nonetheless, they might still care about nonhumans, and we can still join forces with them when we share the belief that unnecessary harm to nonhumans is wrong.

It is tempting to attribute bad motives to people with whom we disagree. However, doing so is a common source of damage in interpersonal relationships and, I am convinced, a detriment to effective social justice advocacy.

Stephen R. Kaufman, MD

2. All-Creatures.Org Newsletter

https://all-creatures.org/newsletter/news-20261104.html

You'll find lots of news, commentaries, recipes, and other tools for vegan advocacy and vegan living.

3. Merchandise for the Cost of Shipping

cup and hat

To receive both items, go to www.christianveg.org/materials.htm and make a $10 donation. If you only want one item, email cvaemail1@christianveg.org to indicate your preference. You can also order books, booklets, bumper stickers, T-shirts and sweatshirts with no additional shipping cost.

2026 Newsletters Archive