A plus-size influencer has sparked widespread debate after claiming she was body-shamed during a visit to Disney World. Gracie Bon, a 28-year-old advocate for body positivity, took to social media to share her painful experience, saying her day at the popular theme park was ruined by the stares, laughter, and even photos taken of her by other park-goers. Gracie, who has built a platform promoting self-love and acceptance, described how upsetting it was to face such treatment while simply trying to enjoy a day with her siblings.
In her post, she questioned whether it was just her imagination or if people truly weren’t used to seeing someone her size at Disney. “Is it just me, or are people really not used to seeing big girls like me at Disneyland?” she asked her followers. Gracie explained that from the moment she stepped foot in the park, she was met with uncomfortable stares from strangers. In response, she decided to turn the camera around and start filming those who were watching her. What surprised her most, she said, was that this reaction came while she was in the United States, a country where, according to her, nearly 40 percent of the population is considered plus-size.
This wasn’t the first time Gracie had spoken out about feeling singled out at Disney parks. In a previous post, she shared similar experiences, stating that people constantly stared at her and even took pictures without her consent. “I was body-shamed on my trip to Disneyland,” she wrote. “People wouldn’t stop staring at my curvy body, but that’s what makes me unique. It’s time to stop the body-shaming. We all have different shapes and sizes, and that’s what makes each of us special.” In a video she posted, Gracie can be seen drawing unwanted attention from other park visitors. In the caption, she expressed her disappointment, urging people to be kinder and more respectful. “It’s time to stop body-shaming others,” she wrote. “Today I was at Disneyland, hoping to have fun with my siblings, but our day was ruined because everyone was mocking my body size. The worst part is they’re teaching their kids to do the same.”
@thebishgossip Woman who went to #Disney ♬ original sound – TheBishGossip
Gracie went on to describe the hurtful behavior she endured throughout the day. “They kept taking pictures of me, staring at me with disgusted looks, or just laughing at me outright,” she shared. Anticipating criticism, Gracie addressed those who might accuse her of exaggerating. “I know some people will say I’m overreacting or that it’s my fault because I’m a big girl,” she said. “But this is the body God gave me, and I’m going to appreciate every part of who I am. Even if you’re sick or look different, you should never be bullied for your appearance.” Gracie concluded her message by emphasizing respect. “I would never say anything negative about someone else’s body,” she said. “Respect is key. This should be a safe space where everyone feels comfortable. I wasn’t doing anything wrong. I was just existing. At the end of the day, I just want to have fun like everyone else. If you don’t like something about me, stop hating and keep it to yourself.”
Her video sparked divided opinions online. Some people were unsympathetic, suggesting she brought the attention on herself. One commenter wrote, “You weren’t born like this, so don’t complain about being body-shamed. You did this to yourself.” Another added, “God didn’t give you all that weight. Don’t bring God into this. Your doctor gave you that.” However, Gracie also found plenty of support among her followers. One person encouraged her, writing, “Don’t worry about them. You’re beautiful just the way God made you! People are just jealous because you’re too pretty!” Another said, “I’m so sorry people are this cruel and judgmental when they have no right to be. You are beautiful.” Yet another person chimed in, saying, “You can’t blame people entirely. It’s hard not to look. When people see something new for the first time, they stare. It’s just human nature.”
This isn’t the first time Gracie has stirred debate with her views. In the past, she responded to online trolls who told her to “buy two seats” when she urged airlines to provide wider seating options for larger passengers. Rejecting the suggestion, Gracie said, “Buying two airplane seats doesn’t solve my problem. Planes are just too small for adults. It’s 2024, bodies are changing, so planes should too.” She stood by her stance and added, “I’m not going to lose weight just so I can fly on a plane. People should offer me another solution or make the planes bigger.” Gracie continues to advocate for inclusivity and respect, challenging societal standards and encouraging others to embrace who they are, no matter their size.
