The Invisible Vegan

The movie "The Invisible Vegan," released in 2019, is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary examining the veganism movement through a lens rarely seen in mainstream media. The film features interviews with spokespersons from the African American and Black vegan movements, exploring the reasons behind the increasing numbers of people of color adopting a vegan lifestyle.

Directed by Jasmine Leyva, the film follows Leyva's personal journey as she explores the ethics of veganism, attempts to address growing health concerns amongst people of color, and uncovers the often-overlooked environmental impact of meat consumption on low-income communities. Through interviews with prominent leaders in the vegan movement such as Dr. Milton Mills, Dr. Breeze Harper, and Jessica J. Moulite, Leyva shines a light on the way that race and culture play a significant role in determining how we relate and respond to our food choices.

The most striking feature of "The Invisible Vegan" is the way it delves into the rich history that underpins many traditional African American dishes, and the intersection of that history with our modern dietary practices. The documentary illustrates how the traditional diets of African Americans have been systematically manipulated and appropriated, transformed from once nutrient-rich diets to ones containing toxic levels of additives, animal fats, and animal products that have been linked to a plethora of health issues including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.

The four sections of the film are divided into themes relating to why people of color are becoming vegan: animals and the environment, health and wellness, spirituality and ethics, and the rise of veganism's popularity. One of the most memorable quotes from the movie is "we must remember who we are, and what we were before we were colonized." This simple yet profound statement drives the film's narrative arc, encouraging viewers to explore their dietary choices in a more reflective and introspective manner.

Leyva's documentary highlights the multigenerational aspects of veganism, showcasing a variety of people--from school-age children discovering healthy plant-based diets to an 80-year-old veteran of the civil rights era, recounting some of the painful social and economic challenges that he has gone through in his lifetime, intertwined with the ones he believes others face today. The notion that the vegan movement is not solely the prerogative of young hipsters and underlines a more nuanced, complex picture that promises to keep the viewer engaged.

Through its sensitive and moving exploration of food, geography, and history, "The Invisible Vegan" provides a powerful reminder that our food choices are rooted in generations of cultural influences, and have consequences for our own health, the health of the planet, and the well-being of those around us. The documentary’s production quality is high, and the messages are well-delivered. It's a vital and refreshing contribution to the broader conversation around veganism and its implications for society at large.

In conclusion, "The Invisible Vegan" is a captivating, eye-opening film that challenges viewers to rethink their diets and their approach to the food that they consume. With poignant interviews and a compelling narrative, it encourages people from all walks of life to pay attention to the role that race, culture, and history play in our food choices, and to consider the impact of those choices on our bodies, health, and surroundings. Whether you're an experienced vegan, a newcomer to the movement, or someone who simply wants to learn more about the subject, this film is a must-see.