Veganism as a cultural identity: The case of Gaziantep

Gaziantep is a city where meat dishes are predominant. The aim of the study is to investigate what veganism is in Gaziantep as a cultural identity within the current food culture in Gaziantep. In addition, it is another purpose of the study to investigate how vegans feel with the identity they have within the current food culture and what is the effect of this identity and their culture on their social relations within the society.In the study, a semi-structured interview form was used within the scope of qualitative research method. 10 vegan individuals living in Gaziantep participated in the research. 14 questions, 6 of which were demographic questions, were directed to the participants. At the end of the evaluations, themes were determined. Considering the statements of the participants, it was determined that the sensitivity to animal rights was effective in the preference of veganism, that veganism was mostly seen as an contrary identity in Gaziantep, and this situation mostly posed a problem for them. While it was determined that vegans always had to express themselves, they stated that they had no problems with being together with Gaziantep's culture. It is possible to say that the effect of veganism on social relations is mostly negative. Keywords: Cultural Identity, Food Culture, Gaziantep Culinary Culture, Veganism