Research by Jean Kilbourne and others has documented the ways in which a narrow and unrealistic body image standard is advanced by mainstream media, often resulting in unhealthy impacts. In recent years, the body positivity movement has become a social phenomenon, with diverse bodies seeing increased representation in culture and society. A significant aspect of the body positivity movement is acknowledging that every type of body is a good body and deserves love and acceptance.  

Celebrating and honoring body diversity has inspired three Georgia Tech departments to join forces to host the Every-Body Pool Party on Friday November 4, 2022, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at the CRC Leisure Pool. The Wellness Empowerment Center, LGBTQIA Resource Center and Women’s Resource Center share a common message to Georgia Tech’s campus of loving yourself and others.  

“Breaking the cycle and dismantling stigmas influencing negative body images inspired the idea to host the Every-Body Pool Party”, said Carli Barbo, dietitian with the Wellness Empowerment Center. “Body image and self-esteem impact each other. When you have a positive body image, it enhances your wellbeing.”  

Students are invited to attend the Every-Body Pool Party, which is a celebration of all bodies. The goal is to create an inclusive environment where students can enjoy a swim, take some fun photos and be in community with one another.  

According to Tegra Myanna, director of the LGBTQIA Resource Center, “The cultural conversation about body positivity and inclusivity is changing to be more inclusive of transgender and nonbinary folks. We joined forces with the Wellness Empowerment Center and the Women’s Resource Center to encourage our student population to find joy in their bodies and reject unrealistic, binary body images and standards.”  

“Changing these antiquated messages play a key role in the way our Georgia Tech students feel about their physical appearance, self-esteem and self-worth,” says Melanie DeMaeyer assistant dean and director of the Women’s Resource Center. "The body positivity movement is also about ensuring that a broader array of individuals along the gender continuum, from various racial and ethnic identities, see themselves represented in authentic ways through film, television, music and across the entertainment industry." 

This fun event will have free food, fun activities and giveaways. Students can RSVP for the event through Engage. https://gatech.campuslabs.com/engage/event/8539720 All participants will be asked to sign a waiver prior to participating in the pool party.