The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) officially declared their choice as the most vegan-friendly city in the United States. After careful deliberation and analysis of the cities in America's 50 states, New York City was hailed the "Most Vegan-Friendly City" of 2014.
The declaration was done during a press conference on the steps of the NYC City Hall last September 17, 2014.
Celebrity and vegan activist Alan Cumming formally presented the award to the city council members. Cumming noted that he has really noticed over the last few years that people are turning towards a vegetarian or vegan diet, adding that these people are beginning to realize that such diet is delicious and healthy. "I think it is an indication of how we are becoming more conscious of what we do to our bodies by what we put into them and what we do to the planet," Cumming expressed.
Cumming presented the council with a Manhattan skyline sculpture carved purely from vegetables, a masterpiece by food artist James Parker.
According to PETA, an organization actively promoting vegetarianism and veganism primarily motivated by their anti-animal cruelty advocacy, New York City was chosen because of the city's wide array of vegan and vegetarian options. Delicious vegan foods are easily accessible in New York restaurants such as Blossom, Zen Palate, Terri, and Organic Avenue, among many others. Quick-fix options such as veggie wraps are also popular.
Also, NYC's big plus factor was the decision of a public school in Flushing, Queens to transition to an entirely vegetarian menu, a first in NYC.
According to council member Corey Johnson, green cuisine is not only healthy but also draws a large number of food tourists and employs thousands of people.
The ceremony was followed by a healthy lunch at Blossom, a popular vegan restaurant.