Episode 24 - Rama Ganesan

Host Shriya is joined by former vivisectionist, turned Anti-Caste, and Animal Rights activist Rama Ganesan. Rama comes from a South Indian background where hierarchy based on caste is prevalent. After reading Eating Animals by Jonathon Safran Foer, she decided that veganism resonated with her ethical beliefs on how one must show up in this world. Since then, Rama has been expanding her activism to reach communities less discussed in the mainstream Animal Rights movement—the South Asian diaspora inflicted by the oppressions of Casteism.While the normalcy of vegetarianism in India is celebrated in the Animal Rights communities, Rama urges activists to reconsider this narrative and recognize its hidden core that is rooted in inherent speciesism, commodification, and exploitation of humans and animals by societal elites.We talked about why it's imperative that the vegan movement incorporates an Anti-Caste stance, the humane myth that may underlie the word "ahimsa," and Rama's views on incorporating facets of different cultures that may not truly be rooted in collective compassion and respect for all beings.There is so much fascinating history in this chat and we hope this conversation offers nuanced insight into often overlooked perspectives on the relationship between consuming animals and one's status in society.Check out Rama's literary work here.Rama's Recommended Reads: Annihilation of Caste, Book Excerpt- Read what Ambedkar wrote on why Brahmins started worshipping the cow and gave up eating beef Follow and reach out to Rama on Instagram, Facebook------Upcoming AAM Events:Chicago Convergence: July 29 - Aug 7Ohio Occurrence: Sep 2 - Sep 4For more information on these events, our online workshops, and much more, visit our Linktree:linktr.ee/animalactivismmentorshipTo support our work: Patreon.com/AnimalActivismMentorshipFollow @AnimalActivismMentorship on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube to keep up with the podcast. Join the conversation in the AAM club on Clubhouse and the Animal Activism Mentorship Community Facebook group.Want to get active for the animals but don't know where to start? Sign up for a free mentor at AnimalActivismMentorship.comAAM is fueled by FARM (Farm Animal Rights Movement).Please remember to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast!