Question:
How can I address that I feel discriminated against?

I work in the very beauty conscienous world of television news. I am damn good at what I do, at working a story and getting information. We are also encouraged to getting out in the field, meeting with contacts and developing realationships to in turn get exclusive stories. Management at the new station I work at refuses EVERY request I have made to go meet with contacts. My contacts are some of the most important since I am in charge of police/fire and county goverment offices, and all my sources say this is the first time they haven't been over-bothered by my station. I am allowed to order gift baskets but the company has me (AND ONLY ME) send a reporter to deliver them. I feel like saying, hey I know I am fat, but you are the only one that has a problem with it. What really bothers me is this job I have loved for so long isn't enjoyable to me anymore. It is hard to come to work now because I feel constantly defeated. Am I over-reacting?    — [Anonymous] (posted on March 1, 2001)

March 1, 2001
Well, no question, that's discrimination. However, it's extremely common and in the media world you have little recourse. You could get a lawyer, I'm sure someone would take the case, but it wouldn't bring back the enjoyment even if you won. In all professions people go further when they're prettier. It's obviously worse in the media, especially tv. I wish I had a great solution for you, I just want you to know you're not alone. This kind of discrimination needs to be noted and made public to some extent. Earning potential is one of the things that is limited for obese people and one of the reasons many of us want to have the surgery. I think we need to bring this to the attention of our legislators. Discrimination is never ok.
   — kcanges