Long Beach, California, Approves Meatless Monday Motion
Last night, the Long Beach, Calif., City Council made history with the approval of a motion to draft a Meatless Monday resolution. The waterfront locale’s decision follows in the footsteps of Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Washington D.C. and Minneapolis, Minnesota, who’ve also opted into the rapidly expanding campaign.
The Meatless Monday idea was originally brought to the attention of area lawmakers by Long Beach resident and Farm Sanctuary General Council Drew Alexis. He wrote to Councilmember Al Austin, after seeing that other cities and organizations were adopting similar measures. Austin also stood up and spoke in favor of the idea at last night’s session.
“Tonight’s agenda is merely a way to raise awareness and add to the dialogue about the need for healthier options,” said Councilmember Austin at the meeting, stressing that this would in no way be mandatory—simply a recommendation.
“Recent studies have indicated that nearly half of all 5th, 7th and 9th graders in Long Beach are considered overweight or obese by federal standards,” he added.
Another councilmember, Lena Gonzalez, chimed in with some other key points, mentioning the negative health and environmental impacts of meat eating. Audience members also voiced their support, one of whom mentioned the meat and dairy industry’s mind-boggling water usage in the midst of the state’s drought.
Eight-year-old Genesis Butler (of A Vegan Child’s Journey) also stood up, confidently stating facts about animal agriculture’s effect on the ocean, the drought and human health. At the end of the session, the council members all praised her articulate commentary.
After a multitude of other local residents spoke in favor of the resolution, the council voted, and passed the Meatless Monday motion with a vote of 7 to 2.
Recommendation to request City Attorney to draft a resolution in support
of the Meatless Mondays campaign in support of comprehensive
sustainability efforts, as well as, to further encourage residents to eat a
more varied plant-based diet to protect their health, and to encourage
restaurants and markets to offer a greater variety of healthier food
options.
Congrats to Long Beach for taking a step forward on the path to a healthier city—and world!
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