A plus-size advocate, Jaelynn Chaney, known as Jae Bae, recently took to her TikTok platform to express her belief that she’s on a divine mission to promote ‘equal rights’ for individuals of size. In a video featuring a lip-synced song, she altered the lyrics to convey her message, boldly stating, ‘Yes, God has chosen me to challenge societal norms and spark change.’ This declaration came alongside her call for regular travelers to support free additional seating for plus-size passengers.
“Oh, here come the fatphobes with their comments,” she remarked, undeterred.
In her caption addressing her 135,000 followers, Chaney elucidated that challenging a society that stigmatizes fatness is an act of rebellion.
She expressed: “In a culture that idolizes thinness and vilifies fatness, raising one’s voice becomes an act of rebellion.”
Jaelynn Chaney, also recognized as Jae Bae, asserts that she’s been commissioned by a divine force to propagate her message globally.
“When slender individuals express discomfort with cramped airplane seats or societal norms, they often receive empathy and prompt action. However, as a plus-size person, I’ve noticed a stark contrast in the response when I raise similar concerns.
In the video, I highlight the injustices I face and the feeling of being unfairly treated due to my size.
Instead of addressing the underlying systemic issues, I encounter hostility, blame for my body size, and suggestions to ‘fix’ myself if I seek change. This glaring double standard exemplifies the unequal treatment experienced by fat individuals in our society.
With unwavering determination to combat fat-phobia, I vow not to retreat. I intend to persistently challenge and advocate for change.
‘Until society acknowledges the inherent worth and rights of all bodies, regardless of size,’ I declare, ‘I refuse to yield. I won’t allow the discomfort of others to silence me or impede progress.'”
Earlier this month, the influencer shared that she embarked on a flight without her oxygen tank for the first time in four years. She continues to advocate for regular travelers to support the provision of complimentary additional seats for plus-size flyers.
“Yes, I’ll persist in stirring, questioning, and advocating for change. If that unsettles the world, so be it. Because ultimately, this isn’t just about me—it’s about ensuring equity and respect for all.”
In an earlier announcement this month, the influencer shared her accomplishment of flying without her oxygen tank for the first time in four years. She explained how she had previously relied on supplemental oxygen to ensure comfortable breathing in the pressurized airplane cabin.
In a moment captured in the video, Chaney holds up her seatbelt, smiling as she demonstrates its extended length. Against dramatic music, she reflects, “What if I have a medical emergency on the plane? What if I necessitate an emergency landing?” Yet, she interrupts her own thoughts, declaring, “No, dismiss that. Despite any doubts or appearances, travel is inclusive to all.”
The influencer, boasting over 135,000 TikTok followers, has previously advocated for the FAA to offer up to three complimentary seats to overweight individuals when flying.
The video proceeds to show Chaney being assisted down an airport gate and onto the plane.
Later, Chaney is depicted in her seat, demonstrating the significant slack in her seatbelt.
The TikTok concludes with a close-up of the influencer’s smiling face.
In her caption, Chaney provides context for her flight, recounting how she has relied on ‘supplemental oxygen’ during flights for the past four years.
“It all began in 2019 after a hospitalization where they suspected I had a stroke,” Chaney wrote. “It turned out to be pulmonary hypertension, and I’ve required oxygen therapy ever since. Traveling just wasn’t the same anymore.”
