Lies are told when the wrong people tell narratives they don't own.
Eyes are unable to see the souls of individuals who have been silenced.
Truths changes experiences and provides opportunities to be heard.
Thighs that move the world beyond limited imagination.
Eyes are unable to see the souls of individuals who have been silenced.
Truths changes experiences and provides opportunities to be heard.
Thighs that move the world beyond limited imagination.
GRANDMA'S LESSONS
Grandma Always Told Me:
"Stand up straight and hold your head high Wear stockings with every dress Put on a girdle Remain a lady Always be presentable Never let the world see you outside of your best Remember the world will tear you down And never let them control your crown." At the time, I did not know these lessons were coming from royalty living in an era that dismissed the beauty I was born with. My grandmother was preparing me to exist in a world that would remind me I was not the standard of beauty. But little did they know, I was being prepared by a woman who defied their definitions of acceptance. I was being prepared by a Queen. |
1956 | My grandmother, who raised me, being crowned as Homecoming Queen in Ware Shoals, SC.
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SHUGGHOOD (CHILDHOOD)
I learned early that the world didn't like fat bodies.
The world told me to change and then I would be accepted.
Family told me no man would marry me.
School told me no friends would stick around.
Life told me that it was easier to become silent - not to fight.
I said, a change would come.
NEW TOMORROWS (RESEARCH AND PHOTOGRAPHY)
In September of 2017, I created the brand Fatness Fiction and a podcast titled +Plus Size Magic Radio. These projects were created to tell the counter narratives related to fat bodies. This work has allowed me to research and unpack the experiences of those who lived at the intersections of different body types and understand their experiences, while sharing my own.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE YOUR BODY AND WHY?
DR. +PLUS SIZE MAGIC (RESEARCH/DEI)
Dr. Fat, Black, and Female:
"Can I teach you who I really am? Or will you let your bias speak for me? Can I tell you what my story is? Or will you tell it for me? I bring truth to lies that you question Challenging your queries about a body's imperfections The diversity among us can provide change But first unpack why your approach is vain." In graduate school I had the opportunity to engage in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion research and work in order to create a fair and just society (#BODEI). Furthermore, as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at IUI in the Division of Student Affairs, I continue discussions around anti-fatness and body discrimination to uplift our entire campus. I utilize qualitative research methods (i.e., counter storytelling, ethnography, etc.) to center these experiences. |
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POSE. CLICK. FLASH. (PHOTOGRAPHY)
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Do You Love You?:
"What if I told you this was the only body you'll get in life? It will grown, shrink, and change the world. Would you love it a little more or keep finding ways to make it perfect? How would you exist if someone complimented you on the beauty you see as flaws? Would you wear that dress? Put on those shorts? Could I convince you to smile more and challenge your negative thoughts? Can you look into reflections and say "I love you" and accept it from yourself? Or have you allowed society to dismiss you as you embrace a shell of your former self?'' Photos by @ElliseSmithPhotography
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I began doing photography in January of 2017. I have always loved photography but never liked the images I would see of myself. I purchased my first camera and decided I wanted to make fat bodies feel good, just because they existed so I went on a photoshoot tour (2017-2019). I aimed to move away from negative tropes and allow themselves to occupy space as they were more than what society deemed as "incorrect". I support all journeys, as long as you remain safe and healthy, and make changes that make YOU happy.
It took me a while to get here. To a place where I appreciate, accept, and value me. The entire me. This journey via research, photography, poetry, and community engagement has created a life long impact that will change the way others view difference. I welcome you to join me, share your narrative, or even engage with this work in order to learn more. You only have one body, enjoy the full experience. And remember, we are not here for a long time, we are here for a good time!
COMMUNITY (THANK YOU)
You're Seen:
"Your voice, your walk, and the way you command a room In the same body they told you was 'too much' or 'not enough' Interrupters of disrespect and curators of acceptance I see your passion, your mission, and intentional vision I see the way you make the change and don't wait for permission I see you and you see us And we are more than enough Thank you for being you Thank you for remaining true." |
The individuals below have impacted my work in a plethora of ways; interviews, photos, advice, love, support, and overall seeing others in this work. I want to publicly say thank you and I appreciate you. The work is not done, we are just getting started!
To ANYONE I may have missed and not below, please understand that your impact is still meaningful and impactful. |
Fairen Kia | Love Thy Belly, LLC
Tiffany Ra'Chel | The Phat Girl Chronicles
Ashley, Avery, James, and Jennifer
Tania Turner | Model/Stylist
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Aly Edmondson | Artist
Rheonna Nicole | Poet
Latricia Johnson
Virgie Tovar | Author
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Dionne Reeves | Full Figured Fierce
Sharonda Grandberry | Model/Stylist
Chanequa, Lisa, and LaTia
Sophia Scott | Model
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