PEOPLE Magazine Supports Size Acceptance, ISAA

On September 23, 1997, I wrote the following letter to PEOPLE Weekly in response to their September 29, 1997 cover story on plus-sized (Female) celebrities called "Who Says Size Counts!"

I was delighted to see the cover for the September 29, 1997 issue of PEOPLE Weekly and its main feature "Who Says Size Counts!" When I saw it, I immediately snatched up a copy and began reading with interest. I must compliment Cynthia Sanz's writing, the background work of the reporting staff, and Frank Veronsky's magnificent photography.
I remember some months ago, PEOPLE was supportive of 1996 Miss Universe Alicia Machado, in the face of the terrible pressure put upon her to lose weight she had gained since winning her crown. I am very encouraged that a magazine that is so widely read and enjoyed as PEOPLE is able to express a size-positive view.
Size acceptance is not yet even a familiar concept in the U.S., much less one that is understood. I appreciate PEOPLE taking such a bold, size-accepting stance on behalf of such wonderful, beautiful, successful women as Delta Burke, Wynonna Judd, Carnie Wilson, Star Jones, Kathy Kinney, Yvette Freeman, and Rosie O'Donnell. Millions of women can identify with these celebrities. These famous women deserve a chance to have their say on size issues and how those issues affect their lives. Thank you for giving that to them.
I was gladdened that these celebrities were not depicted as stereotypical fat women: lazy, always-eating, and out of shape. I was thrilled to read about Wynonna's kick-boxing and Emme's treadmill workouts. Your readers can benefit from Oprah Winfrey's advice: "I don't believe that it's for everybody to be a size 8 or even a 12. I think you need to be where you physically feel the best for you."
I couldn't have said it better. Thank you for a marvelous magazine!
Best Regards,
Allen Steadham
Director, ISAA
E-mail: Director@size-acceptance.org

On May 24, 1997 I received this response from PEOPLE Weekly:

Letter from PEOPLE Weekly Magazine

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