As NIU staff working to promote healthy body image among our students, we were disappointed that the Northern Star chose to publish a letter to the editor on Oct. 6, that commented on the Recreation Center’s new dress code, and included derogatory comments about students’ bodies.

Specifically, this letter argued that “jealousy” over others’ bodies provides motivation for some students to exercise. The letter went on to state, “I don’t know how some of the cows on campus can stand looking at themselves in the mirror.”

As an institution of higher learning, it is important for students to engage in debate and express their opinions about university policies that affect their NIU experience.

However, this type of derogatory comment is unacceptable and promotes discrimination based on weight and body shape. The Recreation Center is designed to be welcoming to all and promotes being healthy at every size. Whether entering the Recreation Center for the first time or embarking on a new fitness journey, reading comments of this nature may deter students from pursuing their fitness goals for fear of being negatively judged by others.

We cannot imagine the Northern Star publishing an article or letter to the editor that made discriminatory comments related to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religion.

Exceptions should not be made for derogatory comments related to weight and body size. As a university community, we need to work together to fight stereotypes and discrimination in all forms. We would like to challenge the NIU community to come together to embrace all forms of diversity.

Dr. Anne Kubal

Psychologist

Counseling and Student Development Center

Eric Appiah

Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness

Recreation Services

Sandi Carlisle

Director

Recreation Services

Martha O’Gorman

Registered Dietician

Recreation Services

Dr. Amy Ozier

Assistant Professor

Registered Dietician, FCNS

Dr. Micky Sharma

Executive Director

Counseling and Student Development Center