Obesity Action Coalition Blog

In the latest of stories featuring the obese, national media today is reporting on a study, based in the United Kingdom, where the obese are being blamed for increased global warming. From eating more food than the average person to only traveling in a car, the obese people of the world are being painted as leaving a larger “carbon footprint” than their thinner counterparts (click here for story).

The OAC has received emails today expressing an overall frustration with the media and society regarding some of the latest stories featuring the obese, such as airline seating policies and global warming. The OAC wants to know how you feel about the media’s and society’s overall focus on the obese.

•    What are your thoughts on the media’s portrayal of the obese?
•    Do you feel the obese are an easy target to place blame?
•    What types of attitudes do stories such as airline seating and global warming foster toward the obese?
•    How would you like to see stories of obesity portrayed or what would you like for them to focus on?

Take some time and share with us your thoughts on these questions. We want to know what you think. You are also welcome to email the OAC at info@obesityaction.org.

Throughout the past few days, media reports have been buzzing with United Airlines’ new policy that targets passengers who are affected by obesity. This policy has already been enacted  and requires obese passengers who do not fit in United Airlines’ seats according to their restrictions to purchase a second additional seat if the carrier is not able to make accommodations otherwise (click here for the policy).

The OAC wants to hear from you! Here are a few questions that will help us know where you stand:

•    What are your thoughts on this new rule? Is it fair, unfair, discrimination?
•    Do you feel it affects your ability to travel?
•    Have you ever had an instance where you were asked to move from your seat due to your weight? If so, how did that make you feel?
•    If you are an obese/morbidly obese individual, do you already purchase a second seat? If so, why and have you faced any challenges?

Take a few moments and share your thoughts with us on United’s new policy. You are also welcome to email the OAC at info@obesityaction.org.