The Rise of the Fat Acceptance Movement: A Historical Examination

The fat acceptance movement, often referred to as fat activism or fat acceptance, is an international social movement that focuses on dispelling negative stereotypes and prejudices surrounding individuals perceived as overweight or obese. Its roots can be traced back to the mid-1990s in the United States, and it has evolved over three distinct waves, each characterized by increasing visibility and recognition.

First Wave: Early Foundations (1967-1979)

The historical backdrop of the fat acceptance movement can be traced all the way back to 1967, when approximately 500 individuals gathered in New York City’s Central Park to challenge the prevailing anti-fat attitudes. These gatherings marked the beginning of the movement, which was inspired by humanist Charlotte Cooper, who saw similarities between the fat acceptance movement and the broader feminist activism of the time.

The first wave of the movement involved detached activists who challenged the predominant model of fatness, which at the time was seen as counterproductive to societal functioning. During the early 20th century, obesity was viewed as a hindrance to the community, affecting productivity and work efficiency in southern coastal regions of the United States (Lew Louderback, 1967).

The 1967 Gatherings

In 1967, Lew Louderback wrote an article in Saturday Evening Post titled "Is Big Beautiful?" This piece laid the groundwork for the fat acceptance movement, which was initially known as the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA).

In 1972, a radical feminist organization called The Fat Underground was formed as a spinoff of NAAFA. This group was inspired by and part of the Radical Therapy Collective, which believed that many mental issues stemmed from severe social structures and practices. The Fat Underground was vocal against what they saw as a growing trend in mainstream research to stigmatize weight.

BBW Term and Magazine

In 1979, Carole Shaw coined the term Big Beautiful Woman (BBW) and launched a style and lifestyle magazine of the same name, targeting larger-sized women. While the first print magazine ceased operations in the late 1990s, the term BBW has since become widely used to refer to any plus-sized woman.

Second Wave: Expansion and Global Reach (1980s-1990s)

The second wave of the fat acceptance movement marked a more significant expansion, particularly in the United States, and saw the movement spread to other countries. By this time, more books and articles were addressing the fat acceptance philosophy, and distributors were more willing to publish fat acceptance-themed works.

Contributions from fat acceptance advocates began to be integrated into research papers in the medical and psychological fields by the 1990s. This period also saw an increase in dissident associations, such as the French organization Allegro fortissimo, which was established in 1989 by individuals including actress Anne Zamberlan. These associations started organizing meetings and conferences, leading to a broader acceptance of fatness within the community.

Third Wave: Diversification and Education (2000s-Present)

The third wave of the fat acceptance movement has seen a broader range of issues being addressed. These include interconnections between fatness and race, class, sexuality, and other identities. The movement has also seen increased representation in art and media, challenging traditional narratives and promoting body positivity.

Challenges and Ongoing Work

Despite its successes, the fat acceptance movement faces challenges. Some individuals within the community prioritize acceptance over health, while others advocate for a combination of both. This divide can lead to tensions and disagreements within the movement.

However, the movement has made significant strides in promoting body positivity and challenging societal norms. The second and third waves have contributed to greater acceptance and understanding, leading to ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all sizes.

Conclusion

The fat acceptance movement, while still evolving, has come a long way since its early beginnings in the mid-1990s. The movement has not only challenged anti-fat attitudes but also promoted self-love and acceptance. As the movement continues to grow and diversify, it plays an essential role in fostering a more inclusive and accepting society.