With very few exceptions, we all harbor some degree of fatphobia. Every time I mention this, I often receive the same reactions. There are those who adamantly deny it, saying, “No way! I’m definitely not fatphobic!” Then you have individuals who claim, “Fatphobia isn’t real; you just want to play the victim.” Occasionally, there’s a creep or two who tries to express their attraction to larger women in the comments. (Heads up, guys: That’s NOT what fat positivity is about.)
However, there are also individuals genuinely interested in understanding and improving their perspectives. They recognize that our society upholds an ideal of thinness, making it understandable that we all have some biases against fat bodies. They are seeking ways to change their long-standing beliefs about fatness and are open to conversation.
Today, I’m addressing that specific group. If you’re not here to listen or if you’re unwilling to engage in a respectful dialogue about this emotionally charged issue, this isn’t the right space for you.
Let’s dive into it. Fatphobia refers to the belief that fat bodies are inferior to thin ones. We’re all guilty of it in some way, including those of us who identify as fat.
As someone who identifies as fat, I often discuss the topic. I’ve spent years reshaping my understanding of fat bodies, yet I still struggle against unrealistic body ideals and the urge to compare myself to other fat individuals searching for validation.
Being aware of these tendencies helps. I talk them out with trusted friends and hold myself accountable. But at the end of the day, internalized fatphobia is still fatphobia, and recognizing that I sometimes direct negativity toward my own body indicates that I still have work to do.
I gather insightful fat-positive content from various online creators. Aubrey Gordon’s posts are a goldmine. There are many brilliant, passionate individuals sharing their knowledge with the world, and I find platforms like Instagram and TikTok to be fantastic for quick doses of fat positivity and education. (As a side note: If you appreciate a creator’s work, especially if they belong to marginalized communities, consider supporting them financially. They shouldn’t have to labor for free.)
The sense of community I find in fat-positive online spaces is a balm for my diet-culture-harmed spirit, and I believe everyone could benefit from engaging. However, before you jump in, here are several key points to keep in mind:
Recognize the Fatness Spectrum
It’s established that the larger a person is, the more challenging it is to navigate our thin-obsessed culture. We don’t need to argue about this anymore. There are shared experiences among fat individuals, such as bullying, emotional discomfort, and frustration over clothing options. However, those in much larger bodies often face unique challenges that may not resonate with everyone. When they voice their struggles or advocate for accessibility, your role is to listen.
Don’t Speak Over Fat Individuals
If you are not fat, you should not overshadow the voices of those who are. If a fat person discusses size discrimination, refrain from telling them their experience doesn’t count. Your role, especially in spaces dedicated to fat positivity, is to listen, learn, and take that knowledge with you to foster inclusivity in your own circles.
Avoid Imposing Limits on Acceptable Fatness
If we aspire to create a more inclusive world, we must not exclude those on the larger end of the fat spectrum. It’s frustrating to see certain fat bodies celebrated more than others. While figures like Ashley Graham receive validation, people like Tess Holliday or those featured on shows like My 600-lb Life often face stigma. To promote kindness toward all fat bodies, our fat positivity must encompass everyone, regardless of their proximity to societal beauty ideals.
Acknowledge Your Own Negative Attitudes Toward Fatness
This can be uncomfortable, but it’s necessary for dismantling anti-fat mindsets. If you find yourself thinking, “At least I’m not fat,” recognize that this is a form of fatphobia. It’s essential to confront these feelings, as they reveal a bias toward thinness.
Understand That Health Is Not a Measure of Worth
Not all fat individuals are healthy, but that doesn’t diminish their right to respect and care. Similarly, not all thin individuals are healthy. It’s crucial to understand that health cannot be the sole criterion for deserving dignity. Expecting only fat people to achieve perfect health in order to earn respect is both unreasonable and unfair.
In summary, don’t make fat-positive spaces about your own experiences. Listen far more than you talk, and trust the narratives shared by those who are fat. Fat individuals are not lazy or unmotivated; they are complex human beings with rich lives. Understanding the nuances of body size takes time, and it’s important to prioritize the voices of those who are sharing their lived experiences.
For further insights on this topic, you can visit Home Insemination Kit and learn more about the importance of advocacy. If you’re interested in exploring the science of body size, Intracervical Insemination is an excellent resource. For information about pregnancy and home insemination, check out Cleveland Clinic.
Search Queries
- Understanding fatphobia
- How to support fat positivity
- Fat acceptance movement benefits
- Navigating body image issues
- The impact of diet culture
In conclusion, engaging in fat-positive discussions requires humility, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to inclusivity.