Warbrick I, Came H, Dickson A. The shame of fat shaming in public health: moving past racism to embrace indigenous solutions.
Public Health 2018;
176:128-132. [PMID:
30352699 DOI:
10.1016/j.puhe.2018.08.013]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this article is to explore perceptions of weight and racism towards Māori, as an indigenous group, and the association between the two. We then propose indigenous solutions as pathways out of fat shaming.
STUDY DESIGN
This is a conceptual article supported by a review of literature in the fields of weight stigma, racism and indigenous (Māori) health.
METHODS
This article is taken from the perspective of three researchers involved in Māori health research, studies on institutional and societal racism and critical research on weight stigma and the weight loss industry. Indigenous peoples in developed nations are more likely to be overweight, obese and disproportionately affected by the comorbidities and physical disorders associated with weight when compared with their counterparts. Beyond the physical ailments are a variety of psychological, emotional and social issues, which are associated with being 'fat' and/or overweight and/or from subsequent stigmatisation.
RESULTS
Long before this world's populations reached the current alarming level of obesity, indigenous peoples in colonised countries were stigmatised because of the colour of their skin, their beliefs and their culture. Stigma is nothing new to indigenous peoples, and so when Māori, or any other indigenous groups are told they are fat and less productive (or moral) because of 'fatness', there is no surprise because they have been told the same thing (albeit for a different reason) for generations. Considering the relatively high proportion of indigenous people in New Zealand, North America and beyond who do not fit the 'recommended weight range', the justification for racist sentiment is seemingly strengthened.
CONCLUSIONS
A weight loss-centred approach to health has not improved the health of indigenous people. Initiatives that draw on, or are underpinned by local, traditional knowledge are more relevant for indigenous peoples and could lead to better health outcomes for these groups.
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