Lim Qi En, Adena 304

Write a speech highlighting what you think is the most challenging issue facing the world today, and how commonwealth values can be used to solve it.

Good morning, everyone. Thank you for being here today. I'm here to address a concerning issue that affects many people worldwide: fat shaming. Have you ever experienced being ridiculed for your body size while going about your daily activities? My name is Adena, and today, I want to shed light on the harmful effects of fat shaming and why it is the most challenging issue we need to put an end to.

You may have unintentionally made a comment about someone's weight or laughed at a fat-shaming joke. Through this speech, I hope to encourage all of us to stop engaging in fat shaming, whether it's making hurtful remarks, laughing along with others, or spreading negativity both offline and online. The Commonwealth value of tolerance, respect and understanding should be applied to this issue at hand.

Now, you might wonder why I'm speaking out on this issue. Well, I've personally experienced fat shaming throughout my life, whether it was at school or even within my own family. It has taken a toll on both my mental and physical well-being. There are three main reasons why I feel compelled to address the issue of fat shaming.

Firstly, fat shaming can lead to depression. There is a lack of respect for different body sizes. Many individuals feel insecure about their bodies and may withdraw from social situations as a result. They may only leave their homes when absolutely necessary, such as for grocery shopping or family gatherings. You're unlikely to see them wearing revealing clothing like spaghetti strap tops or mini skirts. Instead, they may opt for oversized shirts and baggy jeans to cover up. Perpetrators, despite perhaps their narrow views do not even exercise tolerance, much less respect and understanding. They do not realise that causing depression to others can have devastating effects on a person's mental health, causing excessive stress and even thoughts of suicide. 

Furthermore, fat shaming not only impacts mental health but also physical health. Constant criticism and pressure to lose weight can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as extreme dieting or fasting. While these methods may result in weight loss, they often deprive the body of essential nutrients, leading to further health complications. How can we humans co-exist when we constantly judge and criticise the bodies of others? The need for tolerance, respect and understanding is sorely lacking. 

In conclusion, fat shaming needs to stop. It contributes to depression and negatively affects both mental and physical health. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. We must respect each individual's right to choose how they want to look. Whether someone is larger in size due to health reasons or genetics, they should not be subjected to ridicule or discrimination. Let's pledge to be kind and compassionate towards others. Let’s agree that it is everybody’s right to their own shape and size. Let’s agree that there must be tolerance, respect and understanding for and from everyone. Let's put an end to fat shaming once and for all. Thank you for listening. Once again, I am Adena from Singapore. Thank you!