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Volume CXXXIII, Number 17 |
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"Eat Smart" facts not needed
To The Editors:
I am writing to express my frustration about the table toppers that have appeared this week in our dining facilities. I am utterly surprised that, amidst our progress to be more sensitive to issues that have long been silenced, such subjective, one-sided "Eat Smart / Stay Healthy" facts would adorn our tables.
I find it startling that, amidst our efforts to heal this campus of its self-destructive and achievement- oriented mindsets, we are confronted (in the dining hall, no less) with biased "facts" suggesting that, when hungry, we should indulge in "a low calorie beverage such as water," or, if we're feeling risky, "carbonated water mixed with juice."
There is no denying the fact that disordered eating abounds here at Bowdoin; while nine students were sent home because of eating disorders last semester alone, many more remain, silently trudging through their days on our high-powered campus, struggling to survive and recover from deep issues surrounding self-esteem and body image.
I understand that those who work for Dining Services (or whoever is responsible for bringing this campaign to campus) live in the real world where obesity is an increasing health risk. However, I don't believe that Bowdoin is an appropriate target for the American Dietetic Association's propaganda. One needs only to open his/her eyes and walk across the Quad to witness the struggle that so many of us face every day to nourish ourselves sufficiently.
It has taken all of my effort not to remove and destroy these table toppers; I can only hope that we can all look at them with discretion and remember that we are all productive and worthy people, deserving of nourishment and support, regardless of how, when, or what we eat.
Sincerely,
Nicole Durand '04
For information on sending a letter to the editor, please click here.
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