(PCM) We are not really sure when “fat” became a feeling, but according to Facebook it is and there is even an emoticon to prove it. However, many people are not pleased with Facebook using “fat” as an option to describe how one may be feeling and are asking that the company remove the controversial emoticon from the list.
There are over 100 emoticons on the list that Facebook users can choose to describe the way they are feeling when posting a status update to friends and followers. These include “happy”, “sad”, “angry” and “sarcastic” to name a few, but many feel that including “fat” on this list is nothing more than body-shaming. They feel that “fat” definitely describes someones body image rather than a feeling.
A group called Endangered Bodies has even gone as far as to create a Change.com petition urging Facebook to remove the “fat” emoticon and thus far the petition has received the support of over 15,000 people.
The petition states, “Fat is not a feeling. Fat is a natural part of our bodies, no matter their weight. And all bodies deserve to be respected and cared for.”
Endangered Bodies fears that hearing the words “I feel fat” can be very damaging to someone who is suffering from an eating disorder, while to others it may seem harmless or funny.
Sources say that Facebook is currently in talks with Endangered Bodies and is aware of the petition, however they have revealed no plans to remove the “fat” emoticon. The company is currently working with the National Eating Disorders Association to provide assistance to individuals who are suffering with an eating disorder of any kind.