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An acquaintance of mine sells fur in his store...how do I approach him?
Started
by Chastity Castro
on November 7, 2009
One time I was looking at A Scent of Scandal website and because I'm in Canada, certain products are not always widely available. Anyway, so when I clicked on the retailers, I was pleasantly surprised to see an acquaintance's store being the only retailer in my area. He recently opened up so I haven't had the chance to visit.
I looked at his site and my thrills quickly turned to slight disappointment--he carries fur. Some of the fur products were listed as "died of natural causes" (which is probably a claim the fur industry decided to come up with just like the "humanely slaughtered", "free range", "cage free" deceptive claims that the meat and dairy industry have come up with to make people feel less guilty).
Because I am vegan and I feel very strongly about the cause, I feel uncomfortable giving my money to businesses that will support vegan things alongside products of cruelty. How do I approach him? I don't know how to. I have no problem telling other businesses what they should and shouldn't carry (of course I tell them politely) but I feel awkward approaching him simply because I do somewhat know him.
What would you suggest?
Next time you see your buddy, email him, etc... you can say something along the lines of, "I'm Vegan as you may or may not know and as a possible customer of yours many vegetarians and vegans may not not feel comfortable shopping at a place that sells fur. So that's just something I wanted to point out as a friend and speaking for further possible customers and I hope you take it into consideration."
After you tell him once or twice, I would leave it at that. You can't tell people how to run their business but if you suggest something without being on their back, that just might get them thinking. If you really want to do something about it, come up with an updated business plan showing him how the success will rise if fur is taken out of the picture.
Just don't be wearing the only leather belt you couldn't give up when you talk to him! ;-P
I really like what Melody suggested. After offering that perspective I wouldn't hesitate to inquire nicely to find out if a person who is supporting that industry KNOWS what he or she is participating in. Is he fully aware of what his money is condoning? If a persona is FULLY aware and makes that choice then, uhg. If a person is making that choice to pay workers to do that to animals without knowing the facts then you can offer to present the information. That can make a difference!
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