Big, Black, Beautiful and Unapologetic!

By: Nevaeh Richardson Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and, frankly, who gives a damn what you think! That is what more women are saying these days – tired of living under the microscope and scrutiny of judgment and unwanted advice. Why can’t we all just let a person be whom they want to be – especially if they are not bothering you. Can we be FAT and HAPPY? Sounds strange that we even have to ask these questions, but sadly, today, we do! The “weight loss industry” is racking in billions – from a collection of fad diets and products, “healthy meal” services, exercise equipment, gym memberships, waist trainers, etc. etc. etc. because so many of us are trying to live up to others’ standard of beauty. We are not against anyone getting healthy and physically fit, that is necessary to save lives, we are just against the stigma of people trying to “perfect” themselves and not focusing on positive body images. Black women are in a category all by themselves. Many of us will never fit into the “Hollywood” stereotypical – or rather European – ideals of beauty. We are, by design, made stronger, with more athletic builds, broader shoulders, thicker legs and backsides that many other races are paying for in an effort to duplicate cosmetically. But just as much as they try to imitate, they also try to annihilate when it comes to the “true image” of the beautiful, Black woman. They tell us that we ARE NOT beautiful or worthy, and try to make us believe it ourselves. Well, women like Oprah Winfrey, Queen Latifah, Loni Love, Mo’Nique, and even the late Della Reese showed us “large and in charge” Black women are a true sight to behold. But while all these queens were fashionably modest, newcomer Lizzo is taking her self-confidence to a whole new level – and stirring quite a few feathers. She’s been quite the shocker either baring it all or wearing scantily-clad clothing that many people have said should be worn by “skinny folks.” Their criticisms drove her to […]

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