In a world often dominated by preconceived notions and stereotypes, it's not every day that
you come across a unique intersection that challenges societal norms. Welcome to our space,
where veganism meets pole dancing – a powerful fusion that defies stereotypes and sparks
conversations. As proud vegan pole dancers, we are embarking on a quest to unravel the
stigmas surrounding these seemingly unrelated realms, sharing our passion for both and
delving into why breaking down these barriers matters to us. Step into a realm of
empowerment and liberation as we uncover the truths behind two worlds – the dynamic realm
of pole dancing and the mindful lifestyle of veganism.
Why does this matter to us? Because, like many, we've experienced the raised eyebrows and
incredulous looks when we mention our dual passion for pole dancing and veganism. We've
been met with skepticism and faced critical attitudes from others. Yet, we see an opportunity
for growth, understanding, and connection. By breaking down these stigmas, we hope to
inspire open-mindedness, foster inclusivity, and showcase the beauty that arises when
individuals embrace diverse facets of their identity.
Pole dancing is often associated with stereotypes involving strippers and sex workers as they
are the ones that pioneered the modern-day pole artistry we know and love today. Though, it is
essential to dispel these misconceptions that only sexually liberated entertainers dance on
poles. Pole dancing has evolved into a mainstream athletic practice and attracts participants
from various professional backgrounds, including doctors, therapists, stay-at-home moms,
small business owners, and various athletes. Notably, men and children also engage in pole art
and fitness.
It's crucial to acknowledge that the existing stigma surrounding pole dancing is not entirely
baseless. However, the key message we aim to convey is that people from diverse backgrounds
choose to pole dance and their choices deserve equal respect. Whether someone is a sex
worker or a nurse learning to pole dance, both deserve recognition and esteem, regardless of
their motives for incorporating pole dancing into their lives.
Contrary to popular misconceptions, pole dancing is inherently a feminist movement.
Individuals choose to pole dance for various reasons, including improving their health, athletic
leisure, boosting confidence, or expressing themselves creatively. This diverse range of
motivations is legitimate, whether someone is using pole dancing as a form of self-expression
or as a means to earn a living as an entertainer.
Similar to pole dancing, veganism often carries a challenging stigma and is similarly
unforgiving. Often linked with perceptions of preachiness, judgmental attitudes, and
malnourishment, being a vegan is a choice that comes with its own set of stereotypes. The
motivations behind activist’s vocal advocacy extend beyond personal expression, urging a
deeper understanding and open dialogue about these systems consumers are paying for daily.
Choosing vegan options in the 21st century is neither impractical nor extreme; and activists
aren't hesitant to point out cognitive dissonance, because they prioritize animal lives over
human emotion. Vegans are among the few willing to endure societal backlash to speak up for
these voiceless victims.
Furthermore, veganism aligns with feminist principles, as the meat, dairy, and egg industries
intentionally commodify and exploit female reproductive systems. These industries strip away
the autonomy of every individual subjected to their system, planning the day of their death
from the moment of birth, while imposing forced pregnancies and mutilating procedures on to
animals due to intolerable conditions. The underlying question prompts reflection: if we
wouldn't want such treatment for ourselves, why inflict it on others?
In essence, veganism emerges as a social justice movement aimed at aiding the most
oppressed and overlooked beings on the planet.
The parallels between the stigma of being a pole dancer and the stigma of being a
vegan are notable in the way both are misunderstood and carry stereotypes that don't
accurately represent the diversity within their respective communities.
Misconceptions and Stereotypes:
● Pole Dancing: Stigmatized as associated only with strippers and sex workers, despite its
evolution into a mainstream athletic practice with participants from various backgrounds.
● Veganism: Stigmatized as preachy, judgmental, and extreme, with the misconception that
all vegans want to control others. This overlooks the ethical motivations behind choosing a
plant-based lifestyle.
Evolution and Diversity:
● Pole Dancing: Evolved into a respected mainstream athletic practice with participants from
diverse professions and backgrounds, challenging the initial stereotypes while still holding SW in high regard for their contribution to modern day pole dancing.
● Veganism: Involves a diverse community with various motivations, including ethical
concerns, health benefits, and environmental sustainability.
Feminist Movements:
● Pole Dancing: Recognized as a feminist movement where individuals choose to pole for
personal benefits like health, confidence, or self-expression.
● Veganism: Posited as pro-feminist due to its critique of industries that exploit female
reproductive rights and personal autonomy in the meat, dairy, and egg industry.
Advocacy:
● Pole Dancing: Emphasizes that individuals, regardless of their background, deserve respect
for their choice to pole dance, highlighting personal benefits and empowerment.
● Veganism: Advocates for animals that lack a voice and endure societal backlash to speak up
against the exploitation and commodification of them in the food industry.
Challenging Societal Norms:
● Pole Dancing: Challenges traditional views by breaking away from its association solely with
sex work, highlighting the diversity of participants and their reasons for engaging in pole
dancing. Whether someone engages in pole for leisure or as part of their profession in SW.
SW should not be looked down upon.
● Veganism: Challenges societal norms by questioning the ethics of consuming animal
products, despite facing criticism for being perceived as impractical or extreme.
In essence, whether twirling around a pole or savoring a plant-based meal, the resounding
message is clear: it's a call to break free from stereotypes, champion personal choices, and
extend respect and understanding to all, regardless of occupation or species. Both pole dancing
and veganism beckon us toward a paradigm shift, challenging age-old beliefs. As we navigate
these empowering realms, may we embrace the beauty of diversity, both in movement and in
lifestyle, fostering a world that celebrates individuality and compassion.
-Jaqueline Santos, Proud Vegan Pole Dancer