Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Lacey Williams, born and raised in Kirkland, WA. I work as the On-site Property Manager for an apartment community on Lake Sammamish, near the main Microsoft Campus in Redmond, WA. This coming January I will be celebrating 4 years of sobriety.
I passionately believe in continuing to learn, whether it be about overcoming my alcoholism demon, how to live a more compassionate and waste-free life or simply listening to someone else tell their story.
Not one person on earth has everything “figured out”, so why not be open-minded to be an overall better human?
Catch Lacey online here:
IG Accounts: @sober.vegan.girl & @laceylynnwilliams
FB Account: Laycwilliams
What led you to veganism? How long ago?
It began when I reconnected with a best friend from my past, one who’s been Vegan for 6+ years. On her recommendation to watch Earthlings, I went to the website and pressed play. You can guess what happened next. Before the movie was over (yes, somehow, I made it to the end), I was already Googling how to become Vegan. Whereas committing to a sober lifestyle, I was making a better life for myself. Making the conscious choice to be Vegan, I was making a better life for the animals that couldn’t make it for themselves.
When you first went vegan how did you phase out your non-vegan food, clothing and other items?
I decided that I would finish out what I had in the fridge/freezer, but when it came time to eat, I simply couldn’t bring myself to cook the meat. I donated what I had to family and jumped right in! As for health and beauty products, as it’s time to replace, I’m researching and choosing companies that are on-par with my values.
Do you believe we should show children the process of how animals are turned into meats?
That’s a good question; it was extremely difficult for me to watch, to be honest I’m not sure if children need to see the raw videos. Obviously, those feelings may change if/when I have a family.
What does being vegan mean to you?
For me, being Vegan is a lifestyle, not a diet. It’s about being aware of your impact, no matter how big or small. Yes, I catch and release spiders and don’t actively kill bugs. I am transitioning into being as waste & cruelty free as possible.
Is it every vegan’s duty to become an activist?
I believe it is up to the individual whether they want to take on an activist role. I commend those who do and refuse to judge those who don’t. Everyone’s journey is different, and the first rule of humanity is to be kind and respect others, even if you don’t agree with them.
How compassionate or empathetic are you towards non-vegans?
See answer to previous question 😊
Also, not too long ago I was a non-vegan. I remember turning my nose to people who were, thinking they were high maintenance asking too many questions in restaurants, and shopping in what I used to call the “pretentious” part of the grocery store. That way of thinking was completely because of my ignorance. Everyone who is willing can be taught; so why not take a moment and see if you can make a difference?
Any recommended Vegan books?
No, but please send your recommendations to me!
Any recommended social sites, blogs or pages?
I’ve dipped my toes in Facebook groups, including Vegan for Her and Vegan Beginners 101. It has been a great source of information regarding recipes and suggested documentaries, as well as support for anytime you’re feeling defeated.
Do you have a favorite movie or videos or your own media that you want to share?
Like many, Earthlings was the one that did it for me. I recommend this to anyone who is interested in knowing the truth.
What’s your favorite Vegan restaurant?
Wayward Vegan Café in Seattle for their amazing comfort food and The Wayside Café in Olympia for their vast selection of baked treats! I’m a sucker for a good cupcake and when I made the change, unknowingly I mourned not ever having a real cupcake again. Who knew that Vegan cupcakes are way better!
Please share your favorite vegan recipe.
Hands down my favorite home-cooked recipe is the Vegan Mushroom, Pepper and Olive Pizza on tasty.co; I don’t make it often, only because I happily eat the whole thing
Some encouraging words for new Vegans?
I promise you, it’s not as difficult as you think. Changing habits and abstaining from anything, whether it be alcohol or food, is all about how you look at it. It’s best not to think about what you can no longer have, but everything you’re gaining from a brave change.
What is the vegan scene like in your city?
Unfortunately, there are very limited options. I truly wish the eastside (Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue) would expand and realize there is a huge, untapped market.
What personal recommendations can you make for people to meet other vegans?
Facebook groups dedicated to your area for the win! Over the Summer, myself, Lydia (the lovely who introduced me to Veganism), as well as 2 other friends met up weekly for Vegan potlucks. Lydia decided to extend the invitation of a meet-up at a local park to a Vegan FB page. A stranger by the name of Ashley replied ‘Yes!’. She courageously came alone, met strangers who share a common interest and we’ve all been friends ever since.
What does living cruelty-free mean to you? Does it extend to the way you as a vegan treat other humans too?
To me, living cruelty-free means choosing to open your eyes to the truth of what goes on behind closed doors and not being a part of it anymore. There is reason for the saying, ‘blissfully ignorant’. However, there’s no way for me to ever be blissful knowing I’m supporting such things as animal testing, exploitation and so much more.
What are you favorite Vegan non-food products or companies?
I’ve recently began purchasing cruelty-free/vegan makeup and beauty products. So far, I love Tarte cosmetics and Pacifica face wash. Although I’m still working on a complete transition, each time I purchase something different than before, I do a small victory cartwheel inside 😊
What is the toughest Vegan item to find that you need?
I couldn’t pinpoint one exact item; I’ve been open-minded about substitutions and luckily, I’ve noticed more and more grocery stores are carrying multiple options.
Talk about a time when you struggled with your Veganism?
So far, it’s been easy and exciting, though I’m wondering how this first holiday season is going to go. Any tips and tricks are much appreciated!
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