Man brings case in the UK to determine if veganism is a philosophical or religious belief

The landmark case begins in the UK today.

The hearing comes after 'ethical vegan,' Jordi Casamitjana, believes he was dismissed from his job at the League Against Cruel Sports due to his philosophical beliefs. The charity insists his dismissal was due to 'gross misconduct.' Mr Casamitjana had previously raised concerns over how the charity's pension fund was being invested in companies that were involved in animal testing. The League Against Cruel Sports was initially set up in the UK in 1924 with the aim to ban fox hunting, stag hunting and hare coursing. Although the charity has seen great success in helping to bring about the likes of the Hunting Act 2004, it continues to work against brutal and cruel practices taking place across the UK.

Please help me to secure the legal protection of ethical vegans https://t.co/slOsqqVbYU #helpvegan

— Jaysee Costa (@Jayseecosta) January 1, 2020

The initial hearing will not be so much about determining why Mr Casamitjana was dismissed but rather if veganism is a philosophical or religious belief. If it is found to be a philosophical belief, it could give ethical vegans (people who not only choose to eat a plant-based diet but who also avoid leather, wool and products tested on animals) protections from discrimination. According to Sky News, Mr Casamitjana's solicitors have said that their client's beliefs satisfy the requirements laid out to receive protection under the Equality Act 2010. If Mr Casamitjana's hearing is successful, which takes place in Norwich, a separate hearing relating to his dismissal will take place thereafter.   Feature image: @jayseecosta