Have you ever heard or seen something that changed the way you think about a topic? I recently attended a webinar by the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) where people living in larger bodies shared “life hacks” and tips to navigate in a world made for smaller bodies.
Never have I ever
Even after more than a decade talking about how weight bias, stigma, and discrimination are harmful, I was still surprised to learn all the ways our world doesn’t fit or is unkind to people in larger bodies.
As someone in a straight-sized body, there are many things that I don’t have to think about when it comes to how my body exists in the world; things that others may have to consider every day. For example, I don’t worry that my health care provider will dismiss my concerns because of my body size, I’ve never had someone congratulate me for being physically active, and I can enter any room confident that the furniture and space inside will be suitable for me.
Harms from weight bias, stigma, and discrimination
Weight bias, stigma, and discrimination, show up in relationships as well as at work, school, health care, and in the media. These experiences can take a serious toll on a person’s well-being, contributing to physical health issues, mental health challenges like depression or anxiety, social isolation, and even avoiding work, education opportunities, and important health care visits.
Respect shouldn’t be conditional
Society tells people in larger bodies they just need to lose weight to be treated better. This ignores the real problem; our society accepts discrimination based on body size, and its harmful effects as “normal.” Diet culture promotes the idea that smaller bodies are healthier and more attractive, but weight change isn’t simple, isn’t always possible, and is rarely long-lasting. All people, regardless of size, ability, race, etc., have the right to be treated humanely.
August is Fat Liberation Month, which highlights how systems hurt people in larger bodies, advocates for change, and shows how people in larger bodies can thrive despite weight bias, stigma, and discrimination.
What can you do?
Everybody and every body deserves dignity. Here are some ways to support:
If you live in a larger body:
Know that you have the right to unconditional, respectful, ethical, and compassionate interactions where you live, learn, work, play, or are cared for. When this right is violated, act in ways that feel right for you. That might mean leaving a situation, speaking up, or suggesting changes. It can be hard to do these things, but you may find help with allies and support networks. A good place to start is ASDAH’s Fat Liberation Month campaign.
If you live in a smaller body:
You have responsibilities. First, listen to the experiences of people in larger bodies and take direction from them in terms of how to make things better. Second, think about the ways you move in the world and if that’s easier or harder because of your body size. Third, speak up and advocate for spaces that are more inclusive and welcoming to all.
Together we can create a more inclusive society. What will you do?
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