The Struggles of Being a Fat Black Person in Society

The Struggles of Being a Fat Black Person in Society

As a black person in society, you face daily struggles and challenges. Now, add being overweight into the mix and the trials become even harder. Being a fat black person brings its own set of struggles. In this article, we’ll explore some of the challenges that come with being a fat black person in society.

The Intersection of Racism and Fatphobia

One of the biggest struggles that fat black people face is the intersection of racism and fatphobia. Being black and overweight puts you at the intersection of two marginalized groups, increasing the levels of discrimination you face. Fatphobia is the fear or hatred of those who are overweight, and it is pervasive in our society. Fatphobia leads to assumptions that all overweight people are lazy, lack self-discipline, and are unattractive. These assumptions, unfortunately, lead to many negative consequences for fat black people.

Discrimination in the Workplace

One of the most significant problems faced by fat black people is discrimination in the workplace. Studies have shown that overweight people are less likely to be hired, less likely to be promoted, and less likely to earn equal pay for equal work. This discrimination is even more pronounced for black women. As if it isn’t already hard enough to get ahead in the world, this added obstacle makes the path even harder.

Healthcare Struggles

The healthcare system is supposed to be a source of support and help for everyone, but overweight black people face discrimination in this arena as well. Many medical professionals assume that all overweight people are unhealthy and that their weight is the root of all their health problems. This assumption can lead to poor treatment and medical decisions made based on stereotypes and assumptions instead of actual medical diagnoses.

Difficulty Finding Clothing

Finding clothes when you’re overweight is a challenge that anyone can relate to, but finding clothes when you’re both overweight and black can be even harder. Society’s beauty standards are heavily influenced by Eurocentric ideals, which don’t always align with the fashion choices of black people. The result is a limited selection of fashionable clothing in larger sizes, meaning many people have to settle for clothes that don’t fit them well or that they don’t feel comfortable wearing.

Conclusion

The struggles faced by fat black people are unique and often made worse by society’s biases and prejudices. Discrimination in the workplace, healthcare, and fashion industries make it hard for overweight black people to feel seen and valued. Combating racism and fatphobia is essential to make the world a more equitable place for everyone, regardless of their size or color.

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