Queen Latifah Launches New Initiative To Eliminate Weight Stigma

Queen Latifah wants to destigmatize obesity by offering compassion to those in the obese community.

The Newark native has partnered with “It’s Bigger Than Me” to promote weight-inclusive medical care and change how we discuss obesity.

In an interview with People magazine, Latifah shared "66% of people with obesity have felt weight stigma from doctors." She added, "We want to make sure people receive care that's compassionate, safe and respectful."

Latifah has been vocal about her struggles with her weight even in her childhood. "I was big for my size," she shared in 2021 with People. She added, "Looking at my class pictures, I'm the tallest girl."

According to the World Health Organization, obesity is an “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health,” measured by a Body Mass Index (BMI) percentage of 30 or more.

The initiative is sponsored by Novo Nordisk, a global company that helps to produce life-saving medicines. With the backing of Novo Nordisk, medical providers will be able to place a new symbol in their offices to indicate inclusive and compassionate treatment for those who are obese.

“This new symbol is one of hope, a symbol that says we're allies, a symbol that says, you will receive good healthcare here,” the Girls Trip star told the magazine.

Latifah hopes the initiative will invite and encourage honest conversations between obese patients and their doctors.

“If you’re discouraged to get into your doctor’s office, then that's not a good thing,” Latifah says. “I find that when I'm able to have an honest conversation with my doctor, when a person is really able to develop that relationship, there's a lot that your doctor can help you discover about yourself.”