In Loving Memory of Donald Watson (1910 - 2005).
Founding Member of The Vegan Society and Modern Veganism
Donald Watson was more than a visionary; he was a man whose quiet conviction sparked a global movement rooted in compassion, ethics, and sustainability. In 1944, alongside a small group of like-minded individuals, they coined the term “vegan” and founded The Vegan Society, giving a name and a voice to a philosophy that sought to end the exploitation of animals in all forms.
His journey began in childhood, when witnessing the slaughter of a pig on his uncle’s farm transformed his blissful view of rural life into a profound awareness of animal suffering. At just 14, he became vegetarian, and later, in the 1940s, he embraced a fully vegan lifestyle – long before it was widely understood or accepted.
Donald once said:
“We can see quite plainly that our present civilisation is built on the exploitation of animals, just as past civilisations were built on the exploitation of slaves.”
Watson believed that veganism was not just a diet, but “the greatest Cause on Earth,” a moral evolution for humanity. He tirelessly advocated for a world free from cruelty, helping to edit the first issue of The Vegan News and inspiring generations to question norms and choose empathy over convenience. His words and actions laid the foundation for what is now a global movement, touching millions of lives and shaping the future of food, ethics, and environmental stewardship.
Today, as veganism flourishes worldwide, we owe an immeasurable amount of gratitude to his courage and foresight. Donald Watson’s legacy reminds us that one person’s conviction can change the course of history. His life was a testament to integrity, compassion, and the belief that humanity can – and must – do better.
Rest in peace, Donald Watson. Your vision lives on in every campaign we launch, every vegan meal we inspire, and every step we take toward a more humane world.
Dedication written by The Vegan Society
