This week ... columnist Maura Kelly came out with a doozy of an online article called "Should Fatties Get a Room (Even on TV)?"
Ok. So, like myself, you're probably already thinking that this title alone sent up some red flags. As much as I wish she went on in the article to reclaim empowerment of all sizes and demand that a real representation of real people be shown in today's media ... she, um, didn't.
She did, though, say things like:
So anyway, yes, I think I'd be grossed out if I had to watch two characters with rolls and rolls of fat kissing each other ... because I'd be grossed out if I had to watch them doing anything. To be brutally honest, even in real life, I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room — just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroine addict slumping in a chair.
Ok. Um, well, that's not, um, nice, Maura Kelly. You're definitely being brutal
But wait! It's okay for her to say things like that because:
Now, don't go getting the wrong impression: I have a few friends who could be called plump. I'm not some size-ist jerk.
Whew! You hear that? She has a fat friend! So ... she can't be a size-ist! She even went on in the article to take the time to helpfully point out some weight loss tips for all the fatties out there. (sidenote: high fructose corn syrup: bad! exercise: good! thanks maura!)
After 1700 comments on her blog and coverage of this story all over the place -- Maura issued an apology for her "insensitive comments."
And after using words like "sorely regret," "apologize," and "unnecessary," she admits that she herself has her own "body image issues, history as an anorexic, and a life long obsession with being thin." So - some obvious projection in her article ... and how sad/vile that she allowed her own fears and insecurities hurt and judge other people?
We're incredibly disappointed that not only was such an article written -- but was actually published by a woman's magazine that claims to promote positive body image and represent women of all sizes. In fact, Joanna Coles -- the Editor-in-Chief, has defended Kelly, claiming "she is a provocative blogger."
Yeah, we don't agree. (last time I checked, provocative does not translate to mean. or cruel. or bully.)
And in case you don't agree either -- we highly recommend emailing Joanna Coles at JoannaColes@hearst.com and letting her know that.
According to her as well, Kelly has been "excited and moved" by the 28,000 emails so far.
Excited? Really? You're writers! You couldn't think of a more appropriate word than .... excited?
Please - send an email!
4 comments:
Yikes! The real issue is that the writer seems to see all people (herself included) as props to be discarded or showcased according to their aesthetic appeal (which, of course, is in the eye of the beholder).
~Milly
P.S. Love your blog - added you to our blogroll!
As a writer myself, I can't wait to tell Joanna Coles how "excited" I am to be so offended and have this chance to let her have it.
i have an email idea for her. not about being offended, but about having a better writer.
I think this writer had a few good points in her post but they were so shoved to the back by her nasty emotional reaction that they couldn't even be seen. at all.
with a few different word choices she could have made a positive impact. instead she perpetuated hatred and negativity.
Amazing. Blog.
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