A PLUS-SIZE influencer has hit back at trolls who think she should lose weight to fly – and is now asking strangers to donate to her cause.
Jaelynn Chaney has called out ‘fat-phobic’ critics who argue that she should pay extra to board planes.
Jaelynn Chaney has hit back at ‘fat phobic’ critics[/caption]
The 28-year-old, who often posts about “fighting for fat liberation,” says she feels “dehumanised” by trolls who insist she should just “lose weight.”
Critics have also suggested that she should “upgrade to first class” due to her size, comparing the situation to passengers having to pay extra when their suitcases are overweight.
But hitting back, she said: “So now my body is being compared to luggage?
“Charging by weight is fat-phobic and dehumanising. I’m not a suitcase.
“Paying extra for luggage is a different issue entirely. Let’s talk about fair, equal treatment for all passengers.”
Jaelynn – who is reportedly a 6XL (UK size 24) – also condemned those who said she should go on a diet, insisting it’s “not her job” to shrink herself for the comfort of other passengers.
Jaelynn, from Kennewick in Washington State, has also set up a GoFundMe page, where she is asking people to donate to support her mission for fat liberation.
In a lengthy post, Jaelynn explained that she has dedicated years of her life to advocating for the rights, dignity, and empowerment of “fat people,” particularly in areas such as “travel, healthcare, and mental health.”
As a plus-size creator, Jaelynn says she uses her platform to challenge “harmful narratives, expose medical bias, and provide resources to help others navigate the world as fat individuals.”
This includes calling out the lack of size-inclusive travel options and fighting against discrimination in healthcare.
Jaelynn revealed that she has “sacrificed a lot” of her time and energy for her advocacy work but is now reaching out to the public for financial support.
She concludes her post by writing: “Every dollar will go toward building a world that’s more inclusive, more empathetic, and better overall for fat people.
“If you can’t donate, sharing this campaign with your networks helps just as much.”
We previously revealed, how Jaelynn created a petition calling for “comfortable and accessible” air travel for everyone.
She has been asking for donations through a Go Fund Me page[/caption]
The post, which was created after Jaelynn fiance was subjected to “hateful comments,” gained 40,000 signatures online.
“Similarly, on another flight, I was forced to occupy only one seat with immovable armrests that caused me pain and bruises,” she claimed.
According to the young woman, she doesn’t see herself as ”entitled” – ”it’s about basic human rights”.
”Everybody should be able to fly safely and comfortably, just as they are.”
How To Pick The Best Travelling Outfit
The Sun’s Deputy Fashion Editor has broken down essential travel attire to get from A to B in style.
Abby McHale says: “When it comes to deciding on what to wear to the airport several factors need to be taken into consideration.
“What the weather is like in the countries you’re travelling from and to, how long your flight is (as comfort is key) and how much luggage you are bringing with you.
“If you’re going from one climate to another then you’ll want to make sure you have layers, plus this may be your only option if you don’t have lots of space in your luggage.
“A light jacket over a T-shirt with a thin scarf or jumper in your bag in case the plane is cold would work.
“Also don’t forget your sunglasses, although the hot burst of air is lovely as you step off the plane, you’ll need your sunnies in your handbag.
“Bottoms-wise – go for something loose and comfortable, there are so many lovely pairs of wide-leg elasticated trousers around at the moment, look for fabrics such as linen that are nice and light for a stylish yet comfy look.
“Finishing off with accessories, trainers are the most practical option, however, flat sandals can also look lovely (just pop a pair of socks in your handbag for the plane), and a high cross-body bag is perfect for keeping all your important documents near to you.”
