Navigating life as a fat person can be a challenging journey, and being part of a fat positive and empowering community really helps to makes a difference, says Ratna Manokaran, one of the four co-founders of My Fat Squad, a fat positive community.
It can be extremely difficult for fat people to access basic human rights like healthcare, transportation, restaurants, and clothing, says co-founder Farizah Ahmad.
Discrimination, and lack of access to medical facilities and treatment are among the main issues faced by fat people, adds co-founder Dorian Wilde.
Often, the moment a fat person steps into a medical facility, they’re judged for being fat and the interaction is focused on their weight rather then the actual medical condition, and because there are no laws that prohibit discrimination against fat people, the stigmatisation persists, he says.
Fat people need to be protected and given the same rights as other non-fat people, whether it is in healthcare or even finding comfortable seats in spaces such as restaurants, universities, hospitals or clinics, adds Farizah.
It is with this in mind that My Fat Squad – which comprises Ratna, Farizah, Dorian, and Jaskirath Sohanpal – will be organising “Liberation in Every Size”, a fat empowerment day on Saturday, Aug 3, from 10am to 4pm, at Co-Labs Coworking Space, in Starling Mall, Petaling Jaya.
The event is "dedicated to fat people" and promises to be "a day of community, learning, and celebration".
“The purpose of the event is to create a space for fat people to be creative, mingle and talk about lived experiences and also to educate about the concept of fat liberation,” says Ratna.
There will be discussions, conversations and a sharing circle on the topics related to fatness and lived experiences; there will also be creative workshops, an open mic session, as well as an interactive arts session which includes clay arts, painting, colouring, and more.
Some of the highlights include discussions on weight bias and size acceptance; a guided craft event with Hidelle Arts where materials are provided; workshops on various aspects of fat liberation and empowerment; and a clothing swap hosted by Joyful Jiggle.
Tickets are offered on a sliding scale (RM25-RM35) to ensure accessibility for everyone. Interested individuals may also choose to pay it forward and sponsor a member of the community.
For more info or to register: @myfatsquad (Instagram) or Registration Form
