There’s absolutely a knee-jerk negativity to veganism here.

The wildest thing is how I’ve come to expect it from people over the years, yet general society seems have been opening their minds more to the idea. I’ve been vegan for over 20 years, but I don’t usually tell people until they get to know me for a while, because I’d rather people get to know me than assume who I am based on stereotypes. I’m neither looking to create drama nor field an impromptu interview (people tend to ask the same questions whenever they learn someone’s vegan. Sometimes I don’t want to talk, I just want to eat my lunch in peace.)

This past monday, my workplace ordered breakfast for everyone. They included options for a range of dietary restrictions, including vegan, gluten-free, and options free of tree nuts. It was the first time I opened up to these coworkers (I’ve been working with them for a few months), and surprisingly, most people were like, “Oh cool, that’s good to know.” A number of people mentioned being vegetarian or using more plant-based meals lately. One person described herself as an “omnivorous foodie” who is happy to eat anything good, and she even printed out a favorite recipe to give me.

Maybe it’s just the crowd I work with, but the acceptance was very welcoming. I usually don’t enjoy “potlucks” because it’s a crappy deal for me to cook enough for everyone, but have nobody else cook something I could have. But I think I will cook for the next one, if for nothing else, then to support the people who support me back.