Next summer’s Olympic games just won’t stop stirring up controversy. Beijing is seeking out female representatives for next years games, but let the public know that unless you’re tall and thin, you needn’t bother applying. The female presenters will be in charge of giving out medals at the 2008 ceremonies.
"Hundreds of young women will be recruited as volunteers to present medals and raise flags at ceremonies for the Games, which open on August 8, but they must meet stringent criteria," Reuters reported.
"‘We have some very clear conditions and demands,’ explained Zhao Dongming, director of the Cultural Activities Department at Beijing’s Organizing Committee for the Games.
"‘We have certain requirements for their height, since they are to present the medals to our athletes. They need to be of a height between 1.68 and 1.78 meters. That’s above average.’
And what about their figures?
"Generally speaking, they can’t be too fat. Their figure should be good. They shouldn’t be too heavy," Zhao said.
So I guess there’s no ban on thin models in China? This could cause some controversy, as the Olympics are an international phenomenon. While other parts of the world have been actively protesting the dangers of scary skinny models as icons in the media, Asia has continued to be hungry for the stick-thin look.
Check out opposing views on skinny in the media:
Skinny Representation
Beijing Wants Thin & Tall Olympic Reps Only
Trend Themes
1. Body Standards - Beijing's demand for Olympic presenters with specific body requirements highlights a trend towards strict beauty standards and body image norms.
2. Controversial Beauty Ideals - The Olympics' choice to enforce specific body standards for female presenters continues to spark controversy over traditional beauty standards and the objectification of women in industries such as sports and media.
3. Representation Diversity - Amidst debates surrounding body image and beauty, there is a growing trend across industries toward embracing diverse and inclusive representations of bodies and identities, demanding a shift in traditional beauty ideals.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Beauty - The fashion and beauty industry has an opportunity to disrupt traditional beauty norms and embrace diversity in all forms, from body size and shape to race and gender identity.
2. Sports and Athletics - The sports industry can leverage its power and influence to promote inclusivity and representation diversity, challenging outdated beauty standards that have traditionally been imposed on female athletes.
3. Media and Entertainment - The media and entertainment industry has a responsibility to promote healthy and diverse beauty ideals, reducing the harmful impact of traditional beauty standards on audiences and consumers alike.