Dear Sir, - Kevin Myers is to be congratulated on his views on Alicia Machado ("Irishman's Diary", August 24th). As an organisation specifically set up to counter eating disorders, we deplore the attitudes of the swimwear manufacturers who have withdrawn their contracts because Alicia Machado is now too fat".
In today's world, thinness has come to symbolise success, sexual attractiveness, competence and control. For most women and, in particular, adolescents, this ideal is unattainable, and research has shown that eating disorders are more prevalent in dieters.
Vested interests seem determined to continue to represent women in this manner, whether it is the diet or the fashion industry. Objectors to this iniquitous form of tyranny have an uphill struggle for acceptance of women of all shapes and sizes.
It is encouraging, however, to note that there are some small signs that public opinion may be changing. The recent features of "Band Aid" and "Bay Watch" in Vogue magazine caused Omega to suspend its advertising because of the use of excessively thin models. This decision was, unfortunately, later reversed.
We welcome Kevin Myers's contribution to the reversal of these damaging portrayals, and like him, congratulate Alicia Machado on her stand. Yours, etc.,
Bodyways, c/o PO Box 105.
Blackrock,
Co. Dublin.