Who Are We?

A diverse group of people fighting for the rights of fat people and their supporters. Some of our members are fat people who have felt discrimination due to their size. Some of our members are people who enjoy and seek out the company of fat people. All are welcome regardless of size, as long as they treat our members with respect.

We are led by member elected officers. The officers work with the members to develop a chapter vision and goals. It is important to us that we have a group vision, so that as a group we can keep moving forward together.

We are governed by the Bylaws and Consitutions of of the National Association To Advance Fat Acceptance, and our local chapter Bylaws and Standing Rules. Periodically, we reevaluate the operating rules which will guide our members and leaders as we move forward. All chapter members have the ability to provide input into these rules and Bylaws.

Educational lectures. We have many size rights activists and fat-friendly professionals in our community. We call upon their experience to help us educate ourselves and our community.

Group discussions. By discussing our problems and experiences, we are able to support each other as we deal with the day to day hassles of being fat in a thin-obsessed world.

Community outreach. It is important for us to be present within our community, so that no one fogets we are here. We make ourselves heard at community events. At each event, we try to have at least one person really hear our message.

Advocacy on behalf of fat people. We try to improve the world for fat people by utilizing letter writing and media contacts. Everyone must be told that it is not acceptable to insult or discriminate against fat people. We use a variety of means to let this be heard.

Support for fat people. We maintain a network of resources which we share with members of the size acceptance community. We have a hospitality team, which consists of people who have agreed to accept phone cals from people struggling with issues of being fat or being a fat admirer. This team of people will try to provide individual support to people who need someone to talk to.

Social events. We hold events such as dances, fashion shows, and swimming parties. Many fat people and their admirers do not feel comfortable in social situations. We provide events where they can meet and interact in an atmosphere of mutual support. We seek to empower our members so that they will then be better able to go out into the community.

Children's Issues. Fat children suffer many indignities within the school system. We try to network with parents and teachers to try to improve the situation. And, we try talk directly with the children to help them.

International No Diet Day. Each May 6, we celebrate this day by performing activities which encourage our members to refrain from dieting, at least for one day, and to evaluate the role dieting has played in their life. In a world obssessed with dieting, it is important to realize how truly harmful dieting has been for some people.

Size Acceptance Month. Each October, we encourage our members to reflect on how accepting they are of themselves and others. True size acceptance can be a multi-step process for some. Periodically, we must see how far we have come, and how much further we still have to go.

NAAFA National Conventions. Each year our chapter participates in the NAAFA National Convention. We help where we can, and network with people from other areas.

Business Meetings: Once a month, held at the Carousel House in Fairmount Park, Belmont near Montgomery. (215) 753-2631. Wheelchair accessible, armless chairs. Dates vary.

Support Discussion Meetings: Quarterly at various locations. Discussion topics and discussion leaders vary from month to month.

Other Events: Dates and locations vary.

For more information on dates and places, call (215)879-8588,or email philanaafa@aol.com

Because we know what its like to be alone and confused, and we can help.

Because we need your ideas and talents.

Because the fight cannot be won without people who make themselves heard.

Because we'll never tell you to go on a diet.

Because we want to help you learn to celebrate your glorious body, whatever size it is.

Because we have fun.