If anyone has ever tried to promote an event or post through Facebook they’ll know that the guidelines can be pretty tricky to adhere to.
Facebook don’t favour images revealing much skin or anything too sexual which, while conservative, is probably understandable. However, the reason Facebook have rejected this post is pretty heinous.
Cherchez la Femme, a monthly feminist talk show based in Melbourne, was attempting to promote an event called Feminism and Fat. The worthwhile event aims to build a discussion around body acceptance and positivity, bodily autonomy, fashion, and the policing of women's appearances.
The cover image for the event was a picture of popular plus-sized model, Tess Holiday.
And Facebook blocked it.
Cherchez la Femme producer Jess took to Facebook to vent her frustration.
“Facebook responded by telling me that the ad wasn't approved because the image contravened their "health and fitness policy", and that I should instead consider replacing this image with one of a "relevant activity, such as running or riding a bike" she said.
“Facebook has ignored the fact that our event is going to be discussing body positivity (which comes in all shapes and sizes, but in the particular case of our event, fat bodies), and has instead come to the conclusion that we've set out to make women feel bad about themselves by posting an image of a wonderful plus sized woman” she continued.
Jess included a screenshot of the messages she received from Facebook claiming the ad makes viewers feel bad about themselves by showing ‘muffin tops’.
*Sharp inhale of breath*
Check out the post in full below:
