Fat in the future?

I know this blog is all about fat history and the present atmosphere in fat liberation and culture, but I wanted to share something that’s been really inspirational for me in the work I’ve been doing. I recently read an article (from 2004, Volume 34, issue 11/12) by Marilyn Wann in Off Our Backs entitled “Finding the F Word for It.” In the article Marilyn talks about the current fat lib movement, and where she sees the future going. Behold!

I’m happy to report that there’s a new generation of fat feminist women who are saying things more outrageous than 1 have yet tried. There are fat-political student groups organizing on college campuses. And they’re starting to ask their institutions to adopt height/weight anti-discrimination policies. In Portland last spring. I was invited to emcee the second annual Fat Girl Speaks event, and was in awe of the 850-person crowd who showed up for a day of feisty fashion, political strategizing, burlesque training, and my reworking of Frere Jacques: “Fat is beautiful! Thin is beautiful! Yes we are! Yes we are! Body liberation. Body Liberation Starting now! Starting now!” If you’re ever standing in front of a crowd of hundreds of people (young and old, queer and straight and trans, punk and suburban). I recommend it for spine-tingling fun.