Thursday, March 28, 2024

Changing a lifestyle

Research on meat industry convinces Diné to be vegan

WINDOW ROCK

Submitted
Elysia Murphy, who runs an Instagram page called “Vegan Asdzaa,” says she became a vegan because of her concern for animals.

Three years ago, Elysia Murphy, 28, decided to become a vegetarian. A week later, she became vegan and gave up all animal-derived foods and products.

“I became vegan because I didn’t like how the animals were being treated,” said Murphy, who runs an Instagram page called Vegan Asdzaa. “Mainly for the meat industry and how they abuse the animals. The way they’re kept, it’s just horrible.” She started her Instagram page to put a different face to veganism, which people assume only bilagáanas do.

“I wanted people to see that you can be Native American and you can be a vegan,” Murphy said. “You can change your lifestyle and be more healthy for yourself.”

Since starting a plant-based diet, Murphy feels healthier and doesn’t feel weighed down by the food she consumes. Tsehootsooi Medical Center has also encouraged their employees to move toward a plant-based diet to lower their sugar levels and overall be healthier. They started a plant-based diet challenge toward the end of January.


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About The Author

Pauly Denetclaw

Pauly Denetclaw is Meadow People born for Towering House People. She was raised in Manuelito and Naschitti, New Mexico. She was the co-recipient of the Native American Journalist Association's 2016 Richard LaCourse Award for Investigative Reporting. Denetclaw is currently finishing her degree in multimedia journalism from the University of New Mexico - Main. Denetclaw covers a range of topics including genetic research, education, health, social justice issues and small businesses. She loves coffee, writing and being with her family. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Her handle is @pdineclah

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