Alicia Mitchell is a plus-size model, designer and former beauty queen from Newark, New Jersey. Recently, an old photo of her dressed as Aaliyah for a costume party was shared online.
The 34-year-old explained how a post on Facebook sparked a wave of abuse directed at her for being a plus-size woman.
So I’m the Big Girl That everyone is Posting about ! If I was a size 2 No one would have an issue...
“I had people in my inbox making judgments on my appearance, calling me a fat bitch, saying things like I should have been on a treadmill for Halloween, all types of things, I was so confused because these people don’t know me from a can of paint, I’m the sweetest person in the world, you don’t know me or what I do, for you to make such hateful statements like that,” she said.
And so Alicia responded to the trolls on Twitter and let them know: “yes I’m Big but I work with what I got.”
I’m the Big Girl / Fat Girl That’s getting reposted in this picture ... I was Paying Homage to Queen Aaliyah 💕I love her look and I have always been a fan of her ! Women come in all shapes and sizes No need to FAT SHAME ME ... yes I’m Big but I work with what I got 💕 https://t.co/LaUPpEKGYV
She told BuzzFeed News: “My thing is, you have to be happy with who you are, and I made a statement of saying, everybody has flaws with their body and everybody has something that they want to change, but why spend all your life trying to fix something and miss out on the fact this you only get one life and you have to live for today. If you want to lose a little weight, then absolutely work on that process while you’re living, but don’t stop living.”
She also wanted people to know that health and well-being is more than skin deep.
Mitchell said: “I am all about health and wellness, I’m a healthy big girl, I love to work out, I love to eat healthy, but sometimes I want a celery stick, and sometimes I want an Oreo cookie and all of that is okay as long as you have a balance and I had to learn that. You can enjoy your life but everything in moderation.”
Her confidence clearly had an impact because even the person at the centre of the trolling attempted to apologise.
Her costume was in homage to the late singer Aaliyah and her performance two-piece for the single “Try Again,” released back in 2000.
Her message of body positivity in response to the trolling has been a source of inspiration online. Her tweet generated messages of support and compliments.
I’ve been Representing for The Big Girls for a Long Time ... Show your Love ... Your Style has nothing to do with your style ❤️ I should feel free to wear what I please and not be Fat Shamed for it !!! We have to live our Best Life .... #plussizebeauty #plusszemodel https://t.co/tRXPRykOFw
It’s not surprising that people think she looked incredible.
@Makeupiswhatido @_iAmRoyal You look fantastic! Werk, sis!
@Makeupiswhatido Girl you DID THE THING eff them you look gorgeous Now where you get that bra?
@Makeupiswhatido @JediMassaYoda You’re beautiful....... period !!!!! Don’t worry about what other people think . They have insecurities of their own but feel the need to shame other people bc misery loves company . You’re beautiful the way you are 😍😍
Including music icon and longtime Aaliyah collaborator Missy Elliott, who gave Mitchell’s look her approval.
@Makeupiswhatido Aaliyah would of loved this🙌🏾
@Makeupiswhatido @maintishe You hair, outfit, makeup, and everything is on point though. 💯
@Makeupiswhatido Aaliyah would be proud period
@Makeupiswhatido @OneXMind Aaliyah must be looking down at you smiling at the joy you bring to those around you. Haters must just sit their dumd asses down.
@Makeupiswhatido I think you look amazing! Aaliyah would approve.