Bringing Barbie To Life
April 22, 2011 No Comments
Women have been trying to bring Barbie to life for many years. They look at her big boobs, small waist and long blond hair and think that maybe they could look like that too. Whether they have to starve themselves or become workout addicts, the price tag is irrelevant.
Galia Slayen has given a strong voice to a complex problem. Every year for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW), a 5’9″ tall Barbie emerges from her closet to raise awareness of the eating disorders that affect up to ten million Americans.
With a 39″ bust, an 18″ waist, 33″ hips, a size 3 shoe and weighing in at 110 pounds, Barbie is one freaky lady in real life. Looking like she’s going to keel over at any second or snap in two, this less-than-babealicious Barbie doll is getting women talking about a serious issue that is often trivialized in the media and by others who don’t realize the fatal consequences of perpetuating this image.
It’s essential that women keep telling their personal stories about facing eating disorders and ultimately being able to triumph over them. The more stories we hear, the more we can bring this issue into the forefront of our minds and challenge predominant perceptions about ideal body types.
With the help of courageous women activists like Slayen, I’m looking forward to the time when Barbie can just stay in the closet for good. Barbie, it was nice while it lasted, but we’re learning to love our bodies the way they are.
Contact the author here: tinybart@morningquickie.com
