Posted February 2, 2011 by Megan Rondeau
I’ll admit it—I’ve been known to get sucked into the occasional America’s Next Top Model marathon. High drama and high fashion in one show? I’ll take it! Which is why I was so excited when former ANTM contestant Lexie Tomchek contacted peta2 about her passion for animal rights. Check out our interview with Lexie to find out how peta2 influenced her decision to go vegetarian and her take on fur in the fashion world.
1. How long have you been vegetarian? What prompted you to make the switch to a vegetarian diet?
Lexie Tomchek: I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 11 years old, so 8 years now. I used to be such a carnivore as a kid, but all it took was someone posting a link to peta2′s website back in the days of MySpace to get me to change my ways. I remember I spent hours searching through the site reading articles and watching videos. I guess I just never realized where meat REALLY came from until then. I loved pigs, I loved bacon… but I loved pigs more. I’ve been veg ever since.
2. What sort of positive changes have you noticed in yourself—physically or mentally—since becoming vegetarian?
Since becoming veg I definitely have more energy. Cutting meat out of my diet definitely benefited me as an athlete in high school as well. I just feel healthier! I also don’t have to worry about my weight nearly as much as a vegetarian model. Being vegetarian or vegan is the best diet there is.
3. As a model I’m sure you’re very conscious about eating healthy and staying fit. What are some of your fave vegan snacks?
Brown rice or quinoa. I eat pounds of it in a week haha. Quinoa, my favorite veggies and some Borsari salt mmmm…
4. Have you ever been asked to wear fur at a photo shoot or on the runway?
YES! It’s the worst. Few things disgust me more than fur as fashion. There was fur at a runway show on ANTM. It was either speak up and potentially get eliminated or go against what I stand for. I refused to wear it. I’ve also literally had to choose to go topless at photo shoots instead of wearing fur-trimmed sweaters/coats/whatever. I would not be caught dead in fur.
5. In addition to factory farming and the fur industry, are there any other animal rights issues that you feel passionately about?
Absolutely. Every animal I’ve had has been rescued or adopted and I strongly believe that everyone should adopt their pets from a shelter or rescue. I rescued my dog, Olive, hours before she was set to be euthanized and she’s the greatest dog I’ve had.
I also have been known to picket outside of the circus. The way they abuse animals and confine them is horrendous and it truly sickens me.
6. What advice can you give fans who would like to be more involved in helping animals?
Well my first piece of advice would be to become a vegetarian or vegan. That alone saves hundreds of animals a year and benefits the environment (bonus!). I started helping animals when I was in elementary school by volunteering at the local animal shelter. Volunteering was not only helpful to them, but it was fun for me (I got to play with cats all day… awesome!).
Big thanks to Lexie for taking the time to talk to peta2 and for all she does for animals. If you’re looking for fun, easy ways to help animals, check out the peta2 Street Team!
peta2 Street Team Coordinator + lover of vegan food, cats, animal rights, Dawson's Creek, and Harry Potter.
Too long to explain here, it's long enough for a novel.
Well let's just say life ain't always beautiful but it's a beautiful ride. I love all my pets and would do anything for them. I have one dog, two cats, a ferret and my babygirl shaymin,(the cutest hedgehog alive) I'm into all different kinds of music. I'm a singer myself and love art.
Father loves to farm, be self sustainable, loves to read, he's a antiques/vintage auctioneer, art student, and looks like mr. Rogers. My mother is a Montessori teacher and is amazing with children, all about local organic foods, loves gardening, cooking etc. my sister who is nine years older than me was into indie music and introduced me to all sorts of things at a young age. This all rubbed of on me and from that base I grew into similar things. I'm an INFJ
I'm tall, a geek, nacho - obsessed, I love sewing and Cath Kidston, also I'm vegetarian (wannabe vegan.)
Jersey girl now I'm all country.
I love animals about as much as rock, heavy metal, tea, and coffee. Hoping to make a difference and help animals through PETA!!!
I want to get into marketing but not have to rely on people which have different morals and worldviews than I do to hire me. While I'm figuring this out, I want to show everyone what I believe in and spur them into action against injustices.
Life On A Tour Bus
I am Angela. When I am not helping animals I am listening to music, reading, or playing video games. My spirit animal is a fox and I love nature. What else is there to know? Want to know anything about me, need advice or anything message me :)
xo
712 days ago
0
i LOVE ANTM! I didnt know she was vegetarian until just now, thats so great! =)
836 days ago
0
what a doll face! <3
843 days ago
0
Wow thats awesome =D <3 she is GORGEOUS!