Here is something to think about: How many times have you have heard or used the word “fat” this week to describe yourself or others? Most of us are guilty of using this term or allowing someone else to at least once a week but, from October 21-28, members of the UNH campus, and of campuses across the nation, will strive to erase this word from their vocabulary as part of Fat Talk Free Week.

Okay, so just what IS Fat Talk Free Week?

Fat Talk Free Week is a campaign that encourages young women (and men) to reject society’s impossible body/beauty ideals and to ban “fat talk” (more on what “fat talk” is a bit further down…) The initiative is based on a pilot program that began at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas in 2008. “Fat Talk Free Week” is a branch of the Reflections Body Image Program, which was developed by Trinity professor Carolyn Becker and the school’s Greek life, particularly the Delta Delta Delta fraternity. Fat Talk Free Week is now held at over 50 universities across the nation.

What is “fat talk?”

The week’s slogan is “friends don’t let friends fat talk.” This means a ban on criticizing both other people’s bodies and your own.

Examples of phrases that are not allowed:

“I look so fat in these jeans (this shirt, this dress, etc.)”

“Does this make me look fat?” (Answering your friend on this issue is also not okay; instead, try to help him/her to realize that talking like that isn’t healthy. Encourage them to focus on all of the beautiful things about their bodies.)

“She should NOT be wearing those pants….”

“He/she is fat.”

“I’m so fat.”

“I hate my thighs (butt, stomach, etc.)”

“I could never pull that outfit off.”

“Why can’t I look like her? She is perfect?” (Comparing yourself is not allowed!)

“I need to lose 10 pounds-I’m gross!”

Ending fat talk can also include resisting the urge to comment on someone who is “too skinny.” For example, saying “She looks anorexic. She should really start eating!” is not fair game, either.

Fat talk perpetuates a culture in which a person’s figure is viewed as more important than what is inside, and also a culture which causes people, especially females, to go to extremes to fit ridiculous body standards. Consider, for example, the fact that over 10 million American women suffer from anorexia or bulimia. While ending fat talk for a week, or even for forever will not prevent eating disorders, etc. all together, it is definitely a huge step in the right direction. Starting a conversation about these issues is crucial in the fight to solve them.

How is UNH involved?

UNH Health Services and the Eating Concerns Mentors program (more on this program in a later post) have been involved since the inception of Fat Talk Free Week in 2008, and the campaign has grown in momentum over the past few years.

Most UNH students recognize the start of the week with the placement of a life-sized model of Barbie in the lobby of the Dimond Library. The Barbie model is slightly terrifying, due to the fact that she is life-sized, but with the proportions of a doll. The idea is to make people realize just how absurd trying to attain Barbie’s measurements really is. According to a CBS News article, if Barbie were a real woman, she would have to walk on all fours, would not menstruate, and would definitely be anorexic. UNH Health Service’s Barbie will be on display all week-check her out!

New this year is “Mirrorless Monday,” a day which encourages us all to forgo mirrors for the day. Spending time obsessing in front of a mirror is not healthy for anyone, and far too many people do it. Part of the promotion flyer reads “Trust us, you look fabulous and beautiful! Be kind to yourself and celebrate your inner beauty! You are so much more than what you look like on the outside.”

There will also be “inspiration stations” held on Monday (10/22) from 6pm-8pm at the Campus Recreation Center, and from Monday-Thursday (10-22-25) in the MUB Food Court (Union Court) from 11am-1pm.

On Tuesday (10/23), the film Miss Representation will be shown in MUB Theater 1 at 6PM. The film explores the relationship between the media’s negative representation of women and the lack of women in positions of power and influence. There will also be a discussion following the film. In addition, on Tuesday, at 7PM, there will be an online support chat with members of the Eating Concerns Mentors program for those who are struggling with eating issues.

For the official UNH Fat Talk Free Facebook page, click here.