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Immersed in an extended vegan environment, meeting new friends and renewing acquaintances; a natural communication, support and openness, brings flashes of awareness and fleeting visions. Imagine how a continuous expression of kindness and compassionate values could enhance all of our lives.
These 4 days of fun and sharing in the exotic Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, were a fantastic fountain of vegan energy and commitment on behalf of veganism. This was an extremely well organized and conducted event; facilitated by Marly Winckler and the Vegan Society of Brazil (SVB), with assistance from a host of volunteers.
With over 400 participants and representatives from 13 countries, the international flavor complemented the wonderful hospitality and willingness of the Brazilian vegans.
The setting at ‘PUC Rio’, the Catholic University, was in a sub-tropical landscape with a sheltered open air location for the Cultural Fair and an outdoor demonstration and seating area in the shade of huge fig, jackfruit, nut and native trees.
Access to organizers, facilities, lecture rooms and halls was easy with the venue itself sited near the botanical gardens and the famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana.
With an average of 18 talks, 4 food demonstrations daily, a separate 1 day nutrition intensive, and an on going 4 day live food presentation and workshop, we were spoilt for choice. Some people travelled for 3 days to get to the festival,
A couple of food stalls provided simple wholesome sustenance, while acaia and coco juices were at hand as was the University snack bar; and occasional spoils from the food demonstrations.
One of many highlights, especially for raw-fooders were the group Terrapia, who with enthusiastic volunteers were running the Live food course. Their work over the last decade has been to research and educate people about the values of live food. It carries funding from a University, with grass roots support from members and the public, and is an inspiration for individuals and public health programs alike.
The cultural fair had a range of information from activist groups, cruelty free products, literature and film. Some dress accessories, unmistakably vegan motifs, and a range of clothing with a fabric made from 50% cotton and 50% recycled plastic bags!
Whereas an extensive music and dance component was included at IVF11 in India, it was not part of this festival. Here in Rio, entertainment is available on a 24 hour basis. The Brazilians love music and dance - big time!
There was a well attended and very successful action to the steps of Parliament, and we heard a first hand account of an activist’s life inside a rodeo ring! The ‘Vegan Activist of the Year’ Award was presented to Bianca, amid sustained applause.
A strong academic presence was maintained throughout the program, with excellent presentations in the areas of ethics, animal rights, philosophy, animal activism, environment, justice and legislation, and of course politics.
Nederland’s Parliamentary members of the ‘Party for the Animals,’ were present; giving insight and critical advice into establishing political party. Combined with the introduction of ‘Meat free” days in various cities, paving of the public highways and byways ready for a vegan influence has begun.
Individuals extracted the ‘skin and bones’ from veganism, with discussions and stirring input on kindness, activism, radical veganism, ‘sunfire’ cuisine, history, vegan awareness, spirituality, lifestyle, and vegan culture.
Daily yoga, meditation with a didgeridoo, laughter workshops, and film presentations, a fashion show and poster exhibition were held; all supplementing the cultural fair. A country report was presented by international visitors. The full program is available, and can be accessed from www.svb.org.br.
Some 200 people gathered at the happy/sad closing ceremony; joining hands and stepping in time for peace and compassion, prior to the group picture. Many hugs later, filled with a rekindled enthusiasm, we dispersed into a drizzly Rio evening.
The festival here demonstrated the unbridled optimism which arises when truths are exposed; an infectious optimism evident in the extended vegan community; supporting individuals, both vegan and non-vegan, for the experience of compassionate living.
I believe the input from everyone attending the event was important, and I hope to see you at IVF13, wherever and whenever that may be. Obregado to all,
Take Care and Give Care, Paz Zalan