PRIDE Means Body Positive!

I recently had the privilege of attending Portland Pride celebrations. I am a queer person with a non-standard "healthy" body. I am not the fictional ideal that is a size 2, and probably will never be!

The Pride events were wonderful for many reasons. I got to see a diverse array of people and body types. Not only that, but they were all confident and creative in their expression of fashion and style. It was truly a beautiful sight!

Pride events are notorious for fashionable and skimpy outfits! In fact, this is one of my favorite things about Pride - seeing people be unapologetically themselves in every way they can embody that energy.

The importance of body diversity

The abundance of body types found at Pride made me feel so ... proud!

Seeing body diversity is important to me for several reasons. Body diversity promotes inclusivity. It represents people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. When I see a range of body types, especially those that are similar to my own body type, I feel seen, valued, and accepted. This is EXACTLY the energy that Pride events strive for! And body diversity helps provide that.

Challenging unrealistic beauty standards

Also, body diversity helps challenge unrealistic beauty standards. Exposure to a diverse range of body types can challenge the stereotype that there is one "ideal" body type. I believe that when we challenge these standards, we help promote body positivity. It helps me recognize that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Body diversity helps me embrace my own unique body. This creates a more positive body image.

Promoting inclusivity and understanding

For me, body diversity also challenges gender norms. How? By showcasing a range of body types that do not conform to traditional expectations. This breaks down the stereotype that certain body shapes and sizes are exclusive to a particular gender. I feel that challenging gender norms in this way promotes a more inclusive understanding of diversity.

Accepting my own body and improving mental health

Seeing diverse bodies helps me accept my own body. Overall, I think self-acceptance helps people develop a healthier relationship with their own bodies. When I see a variety of body types and sizes being celebrated, I can accept and appreciate my own body and reduce feelings of shame or inadequacy.

Constant exposure to a narrow definition of beauty can have negative effects on my mental health. By showcasing body diversity at Pride and all year round, I believe we can combat feelings of body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and eating disorders.

Eating disorders and mental health conditions can unfortunately be more common in LGBTQIA+ communities. Therefore, I think it is especially important to showcase body diversity in the community. You never know what might help someone else on their personal journey.^1,2

Creating a more compassionate society

Seeing body diversity can be crucial for promoting body acceptance, challenging societal norms, and creating a more inclusive and positive environment for everyone.

At Portland Pride, I saw so many queer people in one place, celebrating their differences. To me, that was so beautiful. Body diversity exposure can help break down the stereotype that certain body types are "better" than others. And I believe it is unacceptable to shame or judge individuals based on their appearance.

By promoting acceptance and respect for all body types, we help create a more compassionate and inclusive society. This is something that the queer community values highly. And it’s definitely something that I saw this weekend at Portland Pride.

Happy Pride!