This year, we learnt of an organization called Veganuary (vee-gan-you-aire-ee). They are a non-profit organization that encourages people to try vegan in January by providing recipes, tips, and resources to support participants. According to the Veganuary website, participants have noted the following benefits within the first month:

• Better skin.
• Increased energy levels.
• New and improved skills in the kitchen.

This lifestyle is becoming increasingly more popular according to The Vegan Society, and here’s why:

• Veganism aims to address and prevent the exploitation of animals.
• There are certain health benefits that are linked to practicing a vegan diet.
• It is a more sustainable option – avoiding animal products is one of the most effective things that we can do to lower our carbon footprint.

As those who are familiar with our story know, Cheekbone Beauty started as self-funded side hustle in Jenn Harper’s basement with a $500 budget. We did not start off with an entirely vegan assortment, although that always remained the eventual goal.

 Today, sustainability is at the core of what Cheekbone Beauty is. We made the switch to clean, vegan, cruelty-free products and haven’t looked back since. We follow our own Biinad Beauty Standards. Biinad (bee-nad) is the Ojibwe word for clean. With our B.Corp certification, we have a legal obligation to put people and planet before profits, which is something we’ve always done. Rather using unsustainable, non-vegan white label formulas that are ubiquitously used by beauty brands, we have created beautiful, clean formulas that we are proud to stand behind.

A Word on Veganism and the Indigenous Community

The relationship between the Indigenous community and the vegan community is one that is often a topic of debate. As we know, Indigenous communities have lived and survived off the land for thousands of years and are known as natural hunter-gatherers. However, the use and consumption of animal products and Indigeneity are not one and the same. Veganism is a personal choice – some Indigenous people do choose to follow this lifestyle choice, and that does not make them any less Indigenous. Many Indigenous communities do not practice veganism as the use and consumption of animal products is vital to their ways of life. The main difference with Indigenous consumption of animals is that the animal is honoured and respected, no part of it going to waste. At the end of the day, it is important that we respect the different lifestyle choices that people make, especially when it comes to their health and wellness.

Veganuary and Cheekbone Beauty

This year, we’re joining the movement! Veganuary is a wonderful way to consider and be conscious of the vegan way of life. Whether you’ve already been participating, or like us, recently learn of this wonderful annual challenge, it’s not too late to jump in. For those who are not ready or able to make entire lifestyle changes, a monthly challenge or the slow introduction of vegan products is a great way to start. While you’re at it, rest assured you can continue to use the Cheekbone line of products that are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, sustainable and earth friendly.