Considerations Before Joining ‘Fat Positive’ Communities

Before you step into ‘Fat Positive’ spaces, there are several important points to consider.

Understanding Our Bias

Most people, to some degree, harbor fatphobic sentiments. I often encounter varied reactions when I mention this. Some vehemently deny their biases, while others dismiss fatphobia as a myth. There are also those who, misguidedly, express attraction to fat individuals, mistaking it for support. (Heads up, gentlemen: that’s not what fat positivity embodies.)

However, there are individuals genuinely seeking understanding and improvement. They recognize our culture’s obsession with thinness and wish to change their ingrained beliefs about body size. If you’re part of that group, let’s dive in. If you’re here to argue or dismiss, this space isn’t for you.

Defining Fatphobia

Fatphobia is the belief that larger bodies are inferior to thinner ones. It’s a bias we all grapple with, even those of us in fat bodies. I personally identify as fat and engage in conversations about body image. Despite my efforts to embrace my body, I still find myself battling unrealistic ideals and comparing myself to other fat individuals.

I’ve curated a wealth of valuable fat-positive content from online creators. There are many remarkable individuals sharing insights across platforms like Instagram and TikTok. If you appreciate their work, especially if they’re from marginalized communities, consider supporting them financially. They shouldn’t have to create for free.

The sense of community found in fat-positive online spaces has been a balm for my diet-culture-influenced psyche, and I believe many can benefit from engaging in these discussions. However, before you jump in, keep the following in mind:

Recognize the Fatness Spectrum

It’s undeniable that those with larger bodies face more challenges in a society fixated on thinness. While many fat individuals share common experiences, such as bullying and discomfort, those in larger bodies often encounter unique obstacles. When they voice their struggles or advocate for necessary changes, it’s critical to listen rather than assume you understand their experience.

Practice Active Listening

In a fat-positive space, if you’re not fat, it’s essential to let those with larger bodies share their narratives without interruption. If someone recounts an experience of size discrimination, don’t dismiss their feelings by comparing them to your own experiences in a smaller body. Your role is to listen, learn, and take that understanding back to foster a more inclusive environment.

Avoid Imposing Your Standards

If we truly aim for a more inclusive world, we must embrace all body sizes. As a fat person without a conventional shape, I can attest to the frustration of seeing some fat bodies celebrated over others. It’s easy to support body positivity for individuals like Ashley Graham, but figures like Tess Holliday often receive less recognition. True fat positivity must encompass all body types, regardless of their proximity to societal beauty standards.

Confront Your Own Biases

It can be uncomfortable to confront our own negative attitudes toward fatness, but it’s a necessary step toward change. If you find yourself thinking, “Thank goodness I’m not fat,” that reflects an internalized bias. Respect and dignity should be extended to everyone, regardless of body size or health status. An obsession with perfect health only perpetuates harmful stereotypes and excludes many.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, fat-positive spaces should not revolve around you. Strive to listen more than you speak, and trust the experiences shared by fat individuals. We are not defined by stereotypes; we are complex beings deserving of understanding and respect.

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Summary

Engaging in fat-positive spaces requires awareness of biases and the experiences of individuals across the fatness spectrum. Listening, learning, and embracing all body types are crucial to fostering an inclusive environment.