NOW OVER TO YOU...
Hot topics are owning your ‘no’, role model Tess and the birth police
LETTER OF THE WEEK NO MEANS NO
I have read and re-read Why is ‘no’ never a no when it comes from a woman?’ (28 Aug). Years of conforming, feelings of obligation, fear of saying no, bosses’ refusal to accept my no, are the reasons I am where I am in my life. I am gradually finding my no. It’s not easy and guilt gives me sleepless nights. I applaud the article – knowledge is power and that power gives me strength. I can say no! Anonymous
HOLLIDAY VIBES
I was overjoyed to see an amazing interview with one of my heroines, Tess Holliday (28 Aug). However, it soon felt like a hollow victory when, after reading an article that promoted body positivity and self-love, Grazia didn’t follow through in the rest of the magazine, with a fashion piece or shoot that featured a plus-size or non-fashion body type. I truly believe beauty standards are changing to better reflect the real people around us. And I have complete faith Grazia will be one of those who lead the way. However, let’s be mindful that perhaps a normalised picture of a different kind of beauty is worth a thousand well-meaning words. Jamie
LABOUR YOUR POINT
As a mum of two, both born by C-section, I related to Can we please stop telling women how to give birth? (28 Aug). I too attended NCT classes and listened to well-intentioned advice about ‘normal birth’ being the best option. I spent 72 agonising hours trying to have a ‘normal birth’, until the point where my unborn child was severely distressed. I had an emergency Caesarean and my daughter was born healthy. A family member commented that the increase in Caesareans means women are losing the ability to give birth naturally. Would such comments be made about a life-saving operation for any other reason? Anna