A few words on the truths, inspired by my friend Imani—dispatches from ComplexCon (with audio), thoughts on how Black women are discussing thinness online, articles & more.
“2024 hasn’t been particularly easy for me; that’s another story for another day.”
I would love to have a recap of how this year went for you as like an end of year review because so many people I know (myself included) had a horrible or just super challenging year. But alas, it is the year that put pressure on rocks to help usher in diamonds.
I have been reading through “Fearing The Black Body” for the past couple of years! (It’s super dense so I’ve been taking breaks) I think I’m mid way. So I def need to finish soon.
For your poll: “Is it tone-deaf for an influencer to talk about chasing thinness, or is it just an honest expression?” It’s the WAY they talk about thinness. It would be different if influencers talk about the pressures and desires of their past and present situation. And acknowledge its harms. But to just state the desire to chase thinness with zero introspection and with a tone that alludes that that is ok is unproductive and regressive. You can tell people’s intentions by their tone and it’s clear when people are being honest and real versus inflammatory and irritating.
I am always so grateful for your thoughtful comments. I will explore EOY updates and maybe some affirmations, articles, etc., that also moved me.
I agree that how we talk about thinness is problematic, especially in the attention economy, where saying the 'controversial thing' is more attractive for viewers/listeners.
“2024 hasn’t been particularly easy for me; that’s another story for another day.”
I would love to have a recap of how this year went for you as like an end of year review because so many people I know (myself included) had a horrible or just super challenging year. But alas, it is the year that put pressure on rocks to help usher in diamonds.
I have been reading through “Fearing The Black Body” for the past couple of years! (It’s super dense so I’ve been taking breaks) I think I’m mid way. So I def need to finish soon.
For your poll: “Is it tone-deaf for an influencer to talk about chasing thinness, or is it just an honest expression?” It’s the WAY they talk about thinness. It would be different if influencers talk about the pressures and desires of their past and present situation. And acknowledge its harms. But to just state the desire to chase thinness with zero introspection and with a tone that alludes that that is ok is unproductive and regressive. You can tell people’s intentions by their tone and it’s clear when people are being honest and real versus inflammatory and irritating.
I am always so grateful for your thoughtful comments. I will explore EOY updates and maybe some affirmations, articles, etc., that also moved me.
I agree that how we talk about thinness is problematic, especially in the attention economy, where saying the 'controversial thing' is more attractive for viewers/listeners.
It’s a pleasure! I’ve bee going out my way to be more intentional with what I consume and to build consistency so your Substack helps! 💖