Eight female TV news anchors in Egypt have been suspended from appearing on television until they lose some weight. They have been given one month to lose weight.
https://twitter.com/makeupforlunch/status/627071626782318592
The Egyptian Radio and Television Union (ERTU) wants them to come back when they have “appropriate appearances.” The Women’s Centre for Guidance and Legal Awareness says that this is a form of violence against the women and that it violates the Constitution.
It has caused quite the debate in the country. One female Twitter user described ERTU head Safaa Hegazy as a “strong woman” for making the decision.”
Mostafa Shawky, a free-press advocate with the Association for Freedom of Thought and Expression, said:
“They don’t understand that people don’t watch them because they have no credibility, skills or quality. It has nothing to do with looks. But it goes to show that actual skill is not something they care about.”
Khadija Khatab, one news anchor suspended, said that the coverage called her “fat” and other nasty things. She said:
“I believe I am an ordinary Egyptian woman who looks normal, and I don’t wear too much makeup.”
She told Buzzfeed news:
“This is moral assassination. I have worked here for more than 15 years and now suddenly those who hate me are publicly defaming me and my career.”
Dalia El-Hamamsy, the executive manager of Women & Memory Forum, said:
“Some jobs might have a dress code or appearance conditions, but weight, according to my information, is not one of them at Egyptian state TV. If this was among the official conditions for presenters, someone needs to reveal the state TV’s hiring guidelines.”
This is ridiculous. Body shaming anyone is never necessary. It leads to many mental health problems. Also, telling women to lose weight in a month is dangerous.
Here is The Young Turks’ coverage on this story:
Featured image via YouTube screenshot.
