VSDC @ Plant-Based Lunch & Learn: Tu B’Shvat - Jewish New Year for Trees

Plant-based lunch-and-learn on Tu B’Shvat for vegans, vegetarians, and curious minds; learn how Jewish ethics connect plant-forward living with animal welfare. Our guest speaker is John Netzel, founder of Peaceful Fields Sanctuary and longtime vegan advocate. John’s work is grounded in Jewish values such as tikkun olam (repairing the world), compassion for all living beings, and mindful stewardship of creation. His story bridges faith, ethics, and action, offering a powerful reflection on how plant-based living connects with Tu B’Shvat’s deeper spiritual themes. In this uplifting conversation, John will share: • How Jewish teachings inspired him to build a sanctuary for rescued farmed animals • The connection between compassion, environmental care, and Tu B’Shvat’s call to honor the earth • What we can learn from animals about responsibility, community, and kindness • How plant-forward choices can deepen our practice of tikkun olam No prior knowledge of Judaism or veganism is required. This event is open to everyone who enjoys good food, meaningful conversation, and learning from diverse perspectives. Why This Event Matters Tu B’Shvat invites us to reflect on: • Our relationship with the earth • Our responsibility to protect creation • Our gratitude for the abundance of the natural world By pairing this holiday with a plant-based meal and a conversation led by a sanctuary founder living out Jewish compassion in action, we hope to create a meaningful bridge between tradition, ethics, and modern food choices.