NAAFA (National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance) is appalled to learn that Disney, a traditional hallmark of childhood happiness and joy, has fallen under the shadow of negativity and discrimination. It appears that Disney now believes that using the tool of shame, favored so much by today’s healthcare corporations, is the best way to communicate with children.

Disney, in partnering with Blue Cross/Blue Shield to create the new Epcot attraction and on-line game, Habit Heroes: http://www.habitheroes.com/bad-habits-gallery, has taken the side of the bullies. The attraction and game feature negative stereotypical characters such as “The Glutton, Overeating and eating too fast”; “Snacker, Too much fatty, processed food”; “Lead Bottom, Not enough exercise”; “Stinkbomb, Bad hygiene”; “The Fungus, Eating rotten or expired food”; “Stress Case, Stressing Out”; “The Prescriptor, Ignoring doctor’s advice” and “Cereal Killer, No time for breakfast”. The use of these stereotypes, traditionally used to torment overweight kids, will potentially reinforce and strengthen a cycle of bullying, depression, dis-ease, eating disorders and even suicidal thoughts.

NAAFA recommends that Disney and their partners, Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Wellpoint, review NAAFA’s Child Advocacy Toolkit. This toolkit is a resource that focuses on a health-centered approach to improve the health of our children without doing harm.

Disney theme parks and characters have always been associated with positivity
and joy; there is no upside to following this new negative path. Let’s keep
Disney theme parks “the happiest places on Earth!”

NAAFA encourages everyone to call and write Disney to express your outrage.

NAAFA Press Releases: Hi Ho! Hi Ho! A-Stigmatizing Fat Kids We Go!