By now most people are familiar with the sizeist comments made by Mike Jeffries, the CEO of Abercrombie and Fitch. If you’ve kept up with the story, you probably saw the kickass pictures that Jes Baker modeled in, re-imagining A&F campaigns as Attractive & Fat, juxtaposing her size 22 body against a male model one would typically see in Abercrombie & Fitch ads. If you loved her A&F campaign (and let’s be real, how could you not?) you might be interested in her next project: The Body Love Conference.
Jes says: “The Body Love Conference (BLC) will be a high energy, positive and progressive event where women can come together to build a community in a supportive environment while participating in revolutionary presentations and workshops. Subjects covered in the conference will include: the history of the beauty myth, the concept of aging, post-birth bodies, how to alter clothing, body positive movement (yoga, burlesque, belly dancing etc.), self expression through writing, how to counteract self hate, and why it’s crucial to challenge social norms.”
The event is potentially expected to be held in Tucson, AZ in 2014. However, that is completely contingent on fundraising to sponsor the conference. Jes started a fundraising campaign with the hopes of raising $10,000 in 30 days in order to ensure that the conference can happen. Money would go to endeavors like booking the venue, getting keynote speakers, catering, and other expenses. Donations can be made on an individual basis or as a business, sponsoring the event. Individuals can donate between $1 and $400, and business levels start at $500. Each level comes with perks, ranging from thank you notes to VIP tickets to the conference.
The conference sounds like a great conversation starter, as well as an amazing and life-changing event for those who can attend. Hopefully it’ll inspire many more like it around the world.
Images and video from bodyloveconference.com, themilitantbaker.com, and indiegogo.com
