What Does the Law Entail?
An important thing to understand here is that in order for a certain belief or idea to be protected by this particular Equality Act, it has to meet some requirements and meet a series of tests. The criteria mainly include:
- Non-confliction with the fundamental rights of others
- Being worthy of respect in a democratic society
- Being compatible with human dignity
Judge Robin Postle, who made the ruling at the tribunal in Norwich, ruled in the hearing that ethical veganism successfully meets all these tests and, therefore, should be considered a philosophical belief, and it isn’t subject to any kind or form of discrimination.
Veganism vs. Ethical Veganism
There’s quite a fine line between ‘dietary veganism’ and ‘ethical veganism’ that also needs to be clarified here in the above context.
Dietary vegans are those who eat a plant-based diet and avoiding eating animals or any derived-products such as gelatin and honey.
On the other hand, ethical vegans also strictly follow a plant-based diet, but they also exclude all other forms and acts of animal exploitation and cruelty. This includes not using any product that is tested on animals, not supporting companies that promote animal testing and avoid wearing clothes that are made of animal-derived materials such as leather and wool.
Final Words
It is indeed very satisfying to know that vegans and veganism will now be given the due respect and recognition that they truly deserve. The Equality Act 2010 views ethical veganism as a secure characteristic that will also lead to great effects on factors like provision of goods and services, transport, workplace, etc.
