In this interview, Ashley Jackson shares her passions for activism and the arts with us, as well as her delicious and easy-to-make Veggie Pasta Bolognese recipe. She discusses the catalyst of transitioning to veganism after being raised a vegetarian all her life. Ashley also shares how she’s realized the intersectionality of food justice and social justice. I have no doubt that she will continue to make an important impact on society and culture and continue to carry the torch passed down from her parents in her own unique way.
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Ashley’s Vegan Activism Journey
Lezlie Mitchell: Hi Ashley! We know activism is in your DNA, tell us how it became a part of your journey with veganism.
Ashley Jackson: I grew up vegetarian and, of course, as a daughter of activists. However, I became fully vegan during the pandemic, and that is when I began to truly understand the interconnectedness between animal rights, environmentalism, and social justice. Having “Long Covid” and the accompanying dietary requirements led me to veganism.
Then I began to educate myself on the wider implications and learned how veganism aligns with my core values around sustainability, equity, and compassion. Within the framework of intersectionality, which explains how different forms of oppression intersect, I recognize that food justice is social justice. As a young person concerned about climate change and marginalized groups lacking access to healthy food, I now see veganism as a form of activism – a small but meaningful way to reduce harm and create a more just food system.
By joining forces across social justice movements, I believe the vegan community can expand its meaning and impact. For me, veganism is no longer just a diet but a personal commitment to advocating for compassionate, ethical change. And I am so thrilled to work with organizations like PETA, which align with this philosophy.
Breaking Barriers through Stories
LM: You’re also a talented actress. Tell us more about your plans to write stories that intertwine your activism and your love for the arts.
AJ: As an actress and storyteller, I’m committed to creating work that authentically weaves together my artistic passions with lived experiences. My goal is to uplift overlooked narratives and increase visibility for diverse voices through film and media. Having researched African-American representation historically, I understand how inclusion in Hollywood remains an ongoing challenge. I aim to counteract these biases by portraying characters that provide empowering representation and break stereotypes on screen. My writing stems from my identity, my family’s activism, and the history I’ve learned in and outside academia. I want to produce content that sparks thought-provoking dialogues that humanize underserved communities.
Exploring LA’s Vegan Scene
LM: Now that you are in LA studying film at The University of Southern California, we would love to know some of your favorite vegan spots and dishes around Los Angeles!
AJ: As a lifelong vegetarian, I’ve mastered the art of veganizing menu items wherever I go, but I truly enjoy patronizing plant-based restaurants. For quick American bites, I’ve grown to love Monty’s Good Burger and Plant Power Fast Food. Their vegan takes on classic comfort foods really satisfy my cravings. For upscale plant-based fare, I love Crossroads Kitchen in West Hollywood. Their menu is a work of art. For grab-and-go salads, Erewhon’s white bean kale and cucumber avocado options are my go-to.
I was thrilled to learn some of my favorite Ethiopian joints offer gluten-free injera – a total game changer! Once school starts, I look forward to discovering new spots near campus, like Kevin Hart’s new restaurant Hart House, and Stuff I Eat in Inglewood. I can’t wait to explore the city’s plant-based dining scene as a USC student.
Ashley Jackson recipe: Veggie Pasta Bolognese
LM: When you have time between graduate school and the various organizations you are part of do you have a go-to vegan meal you love to cook? Please share with us!
AJ: When I have time to cook between school and other commitments, I love whipping up a hearty vegan pasta bolognese. I start by boiling gluten-free noodles (optional), and adding salt to the water for flavor. Jovial and Barilla are great alternatives. (Note: It is imperative to follow the cooking time indicated on a gluten-free pasta box… al dente can become mushy very quickly).
Meanwhile, I’ll sauté white or yellow onions and minced garlic in olive or grapeseed oil before adding chopped mushrooms and green peppers. I sprinkle this portion with salt and pepper and add canned Muir Glen tomatoes. Once my veggie meat is browned and added, I strain the noodles, saving some pasta water for the sauce. I top off the sauce with RAO’s Tomato Basil to increase thickness and incorporate seasonings like oregano, Italian herbs, salt and pepper, onion and garlic salt, and sometimes Bay leaves.
Sometimes I combine the sauce and noodles in one pot or plate the noodles and top with sauce. Either way, it’s a cozy, satisfying meal. I love pairing it with steamed vegetables and vegan, gluten-free garlic bread. Making vegan bolognese from scratch lets me control the ingredients.
The flavors remind me of classic Italian comfort food (one of my favorite cuisines) while maintaining my vegan lifestyle. It’s the perfect dish to meal prep and a great way to de-stress (cooking is one of my favorite pastimes). This veggie pasta bolognese is a go-to weeknight dinner in my kitchen.
More about Ashley Jackson
LM: Sounds delicious, thank you for sharing! We love that you are known as a friend to all, and your activism lends itself to many places. Is there anything else you would love to share with our audience during this exciting time in your life?
AJ: I’m thrilled to begin pursuing my MFA in Producing at USC. As an activist and artist, I’m committed to uplifting diverse narratives through film and media. Although the entertainment industry is facing ongoing labor disputes, I’m eager to return to acting and producing my scripts when conditions allow. For now, I’m fully focused on soaking up all I can as a student among USC’s esteemed faculty and cohort. I’m grateful for the opportunity to hone my craft alongside this creative community. While the future holds many uncertainties, I’m confident my passion for storytelling and social justice will guide me to where I can make the most meaningful impact.
LM: We would love to follow your journey! Where is the best place to connect with you?
AJ: All of my social accounts are under the same name. My username on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc., is “ashleylavernejackson”
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