PETA's New "Save the Whales, Lose the Blubber: Go Vegetarian" Campaign Sexist and Demeaning to Fat Women

PETA, or People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is at it again. The group has a new billboard campaign in Jacksonville, Fla., that is raising eyebrows and ire among women and health groups. The drawing on the billboards in Jacksonville depicts an obese woman with the phrase, "Save The Whales, Lose The Blubber: Go Vegetarian." PETA claims in a press release that their goal is to remind people who are struggling to lose weight, that going vegetarian is a viable alternative and an effective way to shed those unwanted pounds that "keep them from looking good in a bikini." Really? Isn't this demeaning and insulting?

In a press release, PETA stated:

Anyone wishing to achieve a hot "beach bod" is reminded that studies show that vegetarians are, on average, about 10 to 20 pounds lighter than meat-eaters. [...]

"Trying to hide your thunder thighs and balloon belly is no day at the beach," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "PETA has a free 'Vegetarian Starter Kit' for people who want to lose pounds while eating as much as they like. Source: PETA

This latest campaign by PETA is sexist, demeaning and though I would not expect any better from the organization, they owe the people of Jacksonville an apology. Being a vegetarian will not change the importance a fat person in the grand scheme of things.