Just been browsing some articles on thin privilege and I am in two minds.
On the one hand, I am so aware that being overweight or obese can negatively impact the way people perceive you. You’re seen as lazy, undisciplined and potentially even unattractive. Naturally, labelling people with these traits is going to impact their lives, for example, they may struggle to find a job as hiring managers associate their weight with low productivity and lack of self-control. I can absolutely empathise with people who experience discrimination or rejection based on their outward appearance — this is not OK and should never be allowed to happen.
On the other hand, some of these articles are just insane. The article I’ve just read just seems to be an angry and narrow minded account of life as a bigger person. I am thinking some articles address thin privilege but perhaps in a more “radical” way?
The author, for example, writes “Do you get lectures from your Dr? Oh right, that’s just us” — well, I do actually, yes! The reason my Doctor “lectures” me is generally when I am non-compliant with my care; when we both know I should be addressing something but I am reluctant to engage.
Another point concerns airlines - “Airlines don’t charge you extra for existing” - the issue here is, I have been sat next to larger people a number of times and have been very uncomfortable throughout. Flying economy leaves very little wriggle room and as someone who isn’t fond of physical contact with strangers, having someone sat on me for 5 hours isn’t enjoyable. I don’t care if someone is bigger, I just want some space while I get where I need to be.
Whilst I acknowledge I am fortunate to be (generally) treated well in my community, I have worked hard for my body. I used to be a lot bigger due to long-term steroid medication, these tablets potentially saved my life, but taking them made me balloon. I have made sacrifices, I have been consistent and controlled in order to feel comfortable in my own body. I refuse to feel guilty or apologise for that.
TL;DR — I accept my privilege, but where’s the line??
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source https://www.reddit.com/r/loseit/comments/fj0if5/apparently_thin_privilege_is_a_thing/
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