San Francisco Department of Public Health Hires "Anti-Weight-Based Discrimination" Expert
Consultant to Focus on "Weight Stigma and Weight Neutrality"
The San Francisco Department of Public Health has hired self-described "anti-weight-based discrimination" expert Virgie Tovar to consult on "weight stigma and weight neutrality." Tovar, author of "You Have the Right to Remain Fat" and other works on "fat positivity and body acceptance," announced the collaboration on her Instagram.
Background on Virgie Tovar
Tovar is a "plus-size Latina author, lecturer, and leading expert on weight-based discrimination and body positivity with over a decade of experience." She is also a contributor for Forbes, covering stories on the "plus size market." Her most recent articles include features on hosting a "size-inclusive" Thanksgiving and alleged "fatphobia" in current TV shows.
Consultancy Role Unclear
It is unclear what role Tovar will play within the department. The San Francisco Department of Public Health did not respond to Fox News Digital’s inquiry about details of Tovar’s consultancy.
Tovar’s Views on Weight Loss and Body Positivity
Tovar has been vocal against diet culture and BMI metrics on her social media platforms. She has spoken about her own experiences with medical professionals pressuring her to lose weight, which she believes was not motivated by her health but rather by societal beauty standards. She has also been critical of the characterization of obesity as a "disease."
Tovar’s Critique of Weight-Loss Drug Ozempic
In a separate Instagram post, Tovar held up a sign with the words "I don’t want Ozempic," stating that she was offered the weight-loss drug free of charge but declined it because it would not "solve weight bias."
Fat Positivity and Body Acceptance
Tovar offers DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) corporate trainings, per her website, which lists the Seattle Transit Agency, UC Berkeley, and other notable companies as former clients.
Conclusion
The San Francisco Department of Public Health’s decision to hire Virgie Tovar as a consultant on "weight stigma and weight neutrality" raises questions about the department’s priorities and approach to public health. As the city’s public health agency, it is important to ensure that its initiatives are evidence-based and effective in promoting the health and well-being of all San Franciscans.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of Virgie Tovar’s consultancy with the San Francisco Department of Public Health?
A: Tovar will be consulting on "weight stigma and weight neutrality" with the department.
Q: What is the scope of Tovar’s work with the department?
A: The exact nature of Tovar’s consultancy has not been disclosed by the department.
Q: What are Tovar’s views on weight loss and body positivity?
A: Tovar is vocal about her criticism of diet culture and BMI metrics, and she promotes fat positivity and body acceptance through her work.
Q: Has Tovar been involved in previous public health initiatives?
A: Yes, Tovar has offered DEI corporate trainings and has worked with organizations such as the Seattle Transit Agency and UC Berkeley.
