New York City Passes Bill Banning Weight Discrimination | Cnn Business

Imagine graduating from college, armed with your qualifications and ready to conquer the job market, only to face discrimination based on something as superficial as your weight. This is the reality for many individuals, like Victoria Abraham, a self-proclaimed "fat activist" who has been making her voice heard as a content creator online. However, she knows that when it comes to job interviews, her weight often becomes a disadvantage, overshadowing her qualifications. But hold on, there's some good news on the horizon! The New York City council has taken a stand against this injustice and passed a groundbreaking bill that makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals based on height and weight in areas such as housing, employment, and public accommodations. This means that individuals like Victoria will finally have legal protection and support when facing discrimination due to their weight. Abraham expresses her relief and gratitude, stating that having the government and legal protection on her side gives her hope. The bill not only addresses employment discrimination but also aims to change the cultural mindset surrounding weight and appearance. This groundbreaking move by New York City joins the ranks of only a handful of other cities and one state that have similar laws in place to protect Americans from height and weight discrimination. Weight discrimination is a pervasive issue that disproportionately affects women, particularly women of color. Startling studies reveal that women considered obese earn significantly less per hour than their normal-weight counterparts. In fact, weight-based discrimination is comparable to the levels of racial discrimination in the United States, as reported by the American Journal of Public Health. Shaun Abreu, a New York City Councilman and the lead sponsor of the bill, emphasizes that the scope of this legislation extends beyond workplace protection and housing rights. It seeks to challenge and transform the toxic culture surrounding weight in the United States. Abreu himself has personally experienced weight discrimination, recounting an incident where a friend touched his stomach and made derogatory comments about his weight. Such incidents highlight the urgent need for change and a shift in society's perception of individuals who fall outside the average weight range. With this bill's passing, the fight against weight discrimination gains momentum, providing a glimmer of hope for countless individuals who have faced unjust treatment based on their appearance. It's a step toward a more inclusive and equitable society that recognizes individuals for their talents and qualifications, rather than superficial judgments. Let us celebrate this milestone and continue to champion equality for all, regardless of their height, weight, or any other arbitrary factor.