The Internet is going crazy over the new DNCE music video, “Toothbrush.” The video features plus size model, Ashley Graham, as the love interest of the Camp Rock star, Joe Jonas. In the film the couple looks in love and seems to be all over each other. From what I’ve heard, it’s a fire that has been lit off screen as well. Jonas has been interviewed saying, in regards to the love scenes with Graham: "We just got to make out and roll around on each other all day. It was a man's dream come true."
For most people who identify with the thick community, this is a huge step towards acceptance and acknowledgment in the public eye. Bigger woman, for years, have been waiting for the day where we are seen as equal. For the day where the size of our bodies has no affect on our grinds.
Although this is a big step towards a larger discussion, is it necessarily the right one?
The truth is that “plus size” sizes start at size eight. Most people wouldn’t even call a size eight “plus size." A fashion company, produces “fashion for sizes 12-28.” Why are we allowing for average sizes to be categorized as “plus size?” Do we even need that label at all? Why can’t it just be a size, one that changes by body type?
Ashley Graham is a plus size model, yes, but she doesn’t look plus size to me. She is a "plus size" model because she is in an industry that labels her. She is beautifully average. Why aren’t we getting upset about the careful camera angles in this music video? She is rarely shown full figured, and when she is, Jonas is half covering her.
The reality, for me, is that "plus size" is still not satisfying. The reality is that people are still bashing this woman for her body, just because she is a "plus size" model. I will be satisfied when an articles headline reads "Model Ashley Graham to play love interest in DNCE 'Toothbrush' Music Video" instead of the reality; "Plus Size Model Ashley Graham..."
I will be satisfied when I look at the TV and see average people in allergy medicine commercials and car sale commercials instead of “plus size” actors in fast food commercials. Do you know how offensive that is? WHY AREN’T WE TALKING ABOUT THIS?!?
Congratulations to Ashley Graham, though. She is a vital part of a huge movement forward, and that takes a lot of confidence. We shouldn’t let this one win stop us from talking about the real issue at hand; let’s continue talking about body positivity and body equality!
