UNLEARN ANTI-FAT DISCRIMINATION AND FOSTER A SIZE INCLUSIVE WORK CULTURE

Play Big: Create a Workplace Culture Where Body Inclusivity is the Norm

“When we decide that people’s bodies are wrong because we don’t understand them, we are trying to avoid the discomfort of divesting from an entire body-shame system.”

-Sonya Renee Taylor

Here’s how our workshops help.

  • Introduction

    Although negative attitudes toward race and gender have declined in the U.S., size discrimination remains widespread. Many people do not recognize their own biases against individuals with larger bodies, making it difficult to identify and implement effective measures to prevent this discrimination.

    This engaging and revolutionary workshop will introduce you to the complexities of body inclusivity at work, the necessity of creating a safe space for all bodies, and strategies for advocating for a workplace and world where everyone belongs.

    Through heartfelt stories, powerful questions, and cognitive behavioral models, you will gain awareness of the harsh realities of sizeism and its impact on ROI, workplace culture, and psychological safety.

  • The Problem

    Signs that fat people are not accommodated in U.S. society are ubiquitous. Airplane seats, doctor's waiting room chairs, hotel towels, medical equipment, and doorways often do not consider larger bodies. Entire industries, such as healthcare, beauty, and retail, perpetuate the thin ideal, marginalizing and demoralizing fatness.

    The culturally acceptable narrative is “Fat people should just get thin,” built on the premise that intentional weight loss is a moral obligation. However, research shows that intentional weight loss fails in 98% of cases.

    Fat people are often feared, despised, isolated, neglected, and treated poorly. When we see a fat person, we might think, "Oh no, they are one of those people," a thought most wouldn't want to admit.

    When this kind of thinking pervades the workplace, it creates a toxic and unsafe environment for all workers, not just those who are fat.

  • The Workshop Solution

    After completing this workshop, participants will be better equipped to:

    • Grasp the research on weight stigma and its impact on individuals of all sizes

    • Explain intersectionality, explicit, and implicit bias

    • Cultivate awareness, confidence, and knowledge to confront fatphobia, thereby nurturing a more inclusive and equitable workplace

    • Gain insight into size-safe recruitment, hiring, onboarding, marketing, communication, and management practices

  • The Result

    • Authentic connections with employees of all sizes, ensuring they feel heard, seen, welcomed, and experience a new sense of psychological safety

    • Increased body diversity and acceptance among your employees

    • Supportive systems and resources tailored to employees of all sizes

    • Meaningful culture change that prioritizes body respect and inclusivity

Oftentimes weight discrimination goes undiscussed in workplaces for years or decades because of the stigma associated with being in a larger body.  

Ignoring this wildly prevalent social justice issue is damaging to individuals, teams and the overall organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Weight-inclusive training is crucial because it promotes a culture of acceptance and respect for all employees, regardless of their size. This inclusivity can lead to improved employee morale, reduced stress, and increased productivity, as employees feel valued and supported.

  • Psychological safety at work means employees feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment or retribution. Weight-inclusive training helps eliminate weight stigma and discrimination, fostering an environment where all employees feel comfortable and secure, which is essential for collaboration and innovation.

  • A size-inclusive work culture leads to a more diverse and harmonious workplace. Benefits include enhanced employee well-being, lower turnover rates, and a positive company image. It also attracts a broader talent pool, as potential employees see the organization as progressive and inclusive.

  • Weight stigma can lead to feelings of shame, anxiety, and depression among employees. This negatively affects their performance, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. By addressing and eliminating weight stigma, organizations can ensure their employees remain mentally healthy and productive. Stigma can be hidden and rooted in organizational culture.

  • These workshops typically cover topics such as understanding weight stigma, the impact of diet culture, promoting body neutrality, and strategies for creating a size-inclusive environment. They also provide practical tools and techniques for addressing weight-related biases and fostering inclusivity.

  • These workshops are beneficial for all employees, from entry-level staff to senior management. They are particularly important for HR professionals, team leaders, and anyone involved in employee wellness programs, as they play a crucial role in shaping the organization's culture.  Wellness programs are often mired in rules around bodies, food and exercise, which ignore an employee's individual right to tap into their own decisions about food and exercise. Studies show that corporate wellness programs contribute to the prevalence of eating disorders.

  • Effectiveness can be measured through employee feedback, surveys, and monitoring changes in workplace culture and attitudes. Improvements in employee satisfaction, reduced instances of weight-related discrimination, and enhanced overall morale are indicators of successful training.

  • Yes, weight-inclusive training can be tailored to address the unique challenges and goals of your organization. Customization ensures the training is relevant and impactful, addressing specific issues and promoting inclusivity within your particular work environment.

  • Regular training sessions are recommended to reinforce the principles of weight inclusivity and ensure they become ingrained in the organizational culture. Annual or bi-annual workshops, along with ongoing education and support, help maintain a consistent and inclusive environment.

  • For more information or to schedule a training workshop, contact Leemor Ellman directly at leemor@family-food-freedom.com or (917) 674-2845.