My name is Citlalli Salas, and I have been an environmental activist for over a decade, advocating for mental health alongside my commitment to animal rights. As a vegan and anti-speciesist, I believe that respecting animals and the planet is crucial for creating effective solutions to social challenges. Through my content creation, I aim to raise awareness and inspire others to join the movement for a more compassionate and sustainable world.
Please tell us more about yourself
Mourning an animal is a topic that’s rarely discussed and still minimized in our circles, even though it’s just as painful as any other type of grief
el luto por un anymal es un tema poco hablado y que aún se minimiza en nuestros entornos, a pesar de ser igual de doloroso como cualquier otro luto
I’m Citlalli Salas, 23 years old, proudly born and raised in Mexico City.
I’ve been vegan for almost six years. Initially, my decision was driven by environmental concerns, as an environmental activist, I wanted to reduce my carbon footprint, so cutting out meat and dairy seemed like a natural step. But soon, I learned about the ethical side of veganism and felt compelled to make the switch fully. It happened on December 25th— I wanted to start my new year with a commitment to respect animals and the planet.
Stop being part of the ‘comfortable’ lifestyle, which in this society translates to the exploitation of millions of animals
Dejar de ser parte de lo ‘cómodo’, que en esta sociedad se traduce en la explotación de millones de animales
One story I love is how my grandmother, despite not being vegan, became curious and open to trying plant-based meals. She’s taught me so much about traditional Mexican dishes that are naturally vegan, like frijoles de la olla or calabacitas con elote. It’s shown me that veganism doesn’t have to feel foreign, it can be a way of honoring cultural roots while making compassionate choices.
Mexico’s cuisine is so deeply tied to plant-based ingredients many of our “humble” yet flavorful dishes are naturally vegan or can be adapted. It’s been a beautiful process of rediscovering the roots of our food culture while also keeping it compassionate. Also, Mexico, with its rich biodiversity and access to fresh, local produce, has been a great place to embrace my new lifestyle.
What are the common challenges in finding vegan food options, especially when dining out with friends? How can you overcome them?
No more animal products on our plates!
sin anymales en nuestros platos! ✨💖
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is unsolicited conversations about my body and health. It seems that once you go vegan, it becomes an open topic for everyone to comment on (I´m pretty sure most people can relate to this, especially vegan women).
People often feel the need to discuss whether I’m getting enough nutrients or if my body should look a certain way, it’s funny how these conversations aren’t based on facts but still, it’s exhausting to be exposed to this constantly.
Aside from unsolicited health advice, another challenge is the misconception that veganism is expensive or inaccessible, this perception it’s frustrating, especially because I know how affordable and accessible plant-based eating can be, particularly in Mexico. That’s why I focus on creating recipes that showcase the rich variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains we have, often at lower costs than animal products.
I feel empowered
citlalli salas
For me, being vegan is more than a diet, it’s a way of living that aligns with my values of respect for animals and the environment. I’ve never found it difficult because it’s brought so much meaning and connection to my life, especially through food. Also, I’ve been fortunate to have access to fresh, seasonal produce that supports local and fair-trade farmers and the support of a community that its open to listen and learn.
How can you encourage someone who isn’t vegan to try meatless food options?
The demand for plant-based foods is growing, making it much easier and more accessible for everyone to stop consuming animal products 🌱💖
la demanda por alimentos a base de plantas es cada vez más grande y esto solo hace que el dejar de consumir anymalitos sea mucho más fácil y accesible para todas las personas 🌱💖
You can never judge a pain that you’re not experiencing yourself, so please be kind to others <3
nunca se juzga un dolor que no estás viviendo tú, pls se amable con las personas <3
I would encourage them to start with foods they’re already familiar with and find ways to make them plant-based. Mexican cuisine, for example, has so many naturally vegan dishes that are full of flavor and budget-friendly like frijoles de olla and tortillas or tacos de zanahoria. It’s about exploring and realizing that you don’t need expensive ingredients to enjoy good, nutritious food. Just try it as an experiment start with dishes you already love and swap out animal products for plant-based alternatives. You’re not missing out on anything!
What are some recommended places or dishes for vegan food? Why are these your favorites?
For home-cooked food, I love making “tacos de no carnitas” with oyster mushrooms, and soy chunks. It’s a comforting dish from Michoacan, full of flavor and you can find the recipe on my IG. For eating out, I recommend Vega Fried Tofu in Mexico City. They serve the vegan version of Kentucky Fried Chicken, it´s amazing, affordable and you have to try it.
What are some common misconceptions about vegans? How do you address and educate others about them?
No one is telling you what to do with your life, okay? Don’t get defensive
nadie les está diciendo qué hacer de su vida, okay? no se ataquen
A major misconception I think is that veganism is expensive or only for wealthy people. I like to show how a plant-based diet can be accessible for everyone. Another misconception is that vegans are automatically unhealthy, which is something I often have to address when people start questioning my diet without knowing much about it.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their meatless journey?
Remember that the fight for safe, free, dignified, and stigma-free abortion access continues for all who need it, in every part of the city, country, and world 💚
recuerden que aun sigue la lucha por una interrupción del embarazo libre, gratuita, digna y libre de estigmas para todas las personas que lo necesiten, en cualquier parte de la ciudad, del país y del mundo 💚
Start gradually and be kind to yourself. Focus on the foods you already love and find ways to veganize them. Surround yourself with supportive people, whether it’s online or in your personal life, and remember that every step you take helps. Love u and admire you for your effort.
citlalli salas
te enseño a cocinar con plantitas
la vegana tristita de tiktok ♡
all images courtesy of citlalli salas
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