As a lifelong vegan, I've experienced from my peers the negative effects of meat consumption in our school system, which includes my school. The need for a menu change is clear--the meat is disgusting and unhealthy, not to mention terrible for the environment. The livestock industry, which fuels our current levels of meat consumption, devastates thousands of acres of forests annually and contributes significantly to soil erosion. It also uses an immense amount of freshwater each year and is responsible for a substantial portion of carbon emissions.

Excessive meat intake can also have severe health effects. Consuming too much meat increases one's risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and numerous types of cancers. By implementing a Meatless Monday program in Ann Arbor Public Schools, we can take an important step towards mitigating these issues.

Overall, this initiative would most likely cost less for the city than the current meals. A simple, progressive plan for less money and more nutrition--what's to decide? This initiative wouldn't just benefit our health and environment; it would also serve as an educational device to raise awareness about sustainable living among local students. Let's make this small yet significant change for the betterment of Ann Arbor and beyond.

Please sign and share my petition to urge Ann Arbor Public Schools to create a Meatless Monday program – because every small step counts towards preventing climate change and saving our planet.

NOTE: This program would, at least initially, be for Ann Arbor's public elementary and middle schools because AAPS high schools have a continuous lunch menu every day.