San Francisco’s self-proclaimed “anti-weight-based discrimination” advocate, Virgie Tovar, sparked controversy in a resurfaced 2022 video where she stated, “No one has to be healthy.” The author and body positivity activist shared her perspective on health, emphasizing that people aren’t obligated to conform to societal expectations of health, especially those tied to traditional or politicized definitions.
Tovar, who has been hired by San Francisco’s Health Department to consult on “weight stigma and neutrality,” expressed her belief that everyone deserves respect regardless of their health status. She drew parallels to the disability community, arguing that health should not be a prerequisite for dignity or full inclusion in society.
The comments received mixed reactions online. Critics highlighted the importance of health in reducing obesity-related risks and managing healthcare costs, while others expressed discomfort with comparisons between the struggles of obese individuals and those with disabilities. Tovar has also been vocal against GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, choosing to reject the medication despite eligibility.
Tovar’s appointment by the San Francisco Department of Public Health has drawn attention, with many questioning the specifics of her role. Her advocacy aims to shift public health conversations toward weight neutrality and challenge the stigma surrounding obesity.
