Unfortunately, being a woman in 2017 isn't exactly easy. True, many before us have fought long and hard for women to have equal rights, and for that, modern day women should be forever grateful. But, that isn't to say that everything is perfect, or even fair. The gender pay gap still exists, sexism is still alive and well, and many people still consider marriage and children to be a woman's greatest accomplishment. And on top of all of that, body shaming has become an all too regular occurrence, especially with the help of the internet. Luckily, last week, a meteorologist clapped back at a body shamer who criticized her postpartum weight, and she seriously nailed it — and provided a perfect example for the rest of us in the process.
Carrie Duncan, a meteorologist for WLOX in southern Mississippi, had recently gone back to work after giving birth to her son in December. Unfortunately, she wasn't welcomed back with open arms from everyone. True, most fans were excited to see her back on their televisions, but one viewer in particular felt the need to let Duncan know just how disappointed she was in Duncan's postpartum body and her pregnancy weight gain. Because another woman's body is totally within the realm of things we should judge from afar, right? (Insert eye roll here).
But, because Duncan is seriously amazing, she had a spot-on response to the email, which she shared on her Facebook page last week.
"Why in the world have you continued to tear your health up with all that weight?" the viewer's email began. "You will not live to see your children grow if you do not get rid of that horrid gut and huge arms. You are an embarassment to yourself and all the viewers of WLOX on the Gulf Coast." But the viewer didn't stop there. They then went on to tell Duncan that her husband can't even stand to watch her on the news anymore because he finds her "repulsive."
Really, the whole email is disgusting, and the fact that anyone would feel the need to say such hurtful things to another human being is worrisome, but, unfortunately, not surprising. Body-shaming is nothing new for women, but luckily, Duncan's response to her own critic can serve as some much-needed positivity.
Here's Duncan's response, in full:
You know I shared A LOT with y'all over the past almost 15 years. I appreciate the kind words, support & genuine excitement you have had for me! I heart y'all. I am not happy with my weight right. I am tired a lot and not getting much sleep and eating poorly. I know this. I want to do better, and I know I will. I appreciate the kindness you have shown to me.
I am sharing this email I received to show you what some people have to go through. It could be the thinnest person, and they're too skinny. There are some people who are seriously unhappy. Ugly people always have something ugly to say. Please think about the people you are saying these things about and to. I believe this person also sent a horrible email which I didn't read when I was pregnant.
Here's the thing, if you don't like something/someone on tv, change the channel. Please STOP WITH THE HATE! Thank you! Rant over! See you Monday when I'm back from vacation!
All women are beautiful, and all bodies are amazing — especially Duncan's, which literally just birthed another human — no matter what. Body shaming sucks, but hopefully, women like Duncan will continue to power the world with positivity and love and shut down the negative noise at every turn.
