Ep 4. Body Politics

United Shades of America is a CNN original docuseries hosted by W. Kamau Bell that explores the diverse and complex state of America. Season 4, episode 4 delves into the topic of Body Politics.

The episode begins with Bell visiting a burlesque show where he meets performers who take pride in their bodies and embrace their sexuality. He then moves on to discuss the topic of body shaming and how it affects people's self-esteem. Bell has an open and candid conversation with a social media influencer who struggled with body image issues in the past.

Next, Bell meets with a group of body positivity activists who use their social media platforms to promote body acceptance and inclusivity. They discuss how society's beauty standards have put pressure on people to conform to a certain body type, which has led to widespread body shaming. Bell also speaks with a plus-size model who shares her experience of breaking into the industry and the challenges she has faced.

Moving on, Bell explores the intersection of politics and bodies. He talks to a group of women who have had abortions and shares their experiences. Bell also speaks with activists who fight for reproductive rights and the right to bodily autonomy. They discuss the current political climate and the impact it has on women's health and access to basic health care services.

Bell then shifts the focus to the LGBTQ+ community and their battle for equal rights and acceptance. He talks with a transgender woman who shares her struggles with acceptance and the obstacles she has faced since transitioning. Bell also visits a gym that caters specifically to the LGBTQ+ community and provides a safe space for them to exercise without fear of discrimination.

Throughout the episode, Bell emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and body acceptance. He meets with various individuals and groups who are working to challenge society's beauty standards and promote inclusivity and acceptance. The episode ends with Bell highlighting the ways in which we can all work towards creating a more accepting and open society.

Overall, United Shades of America season 4 episode 4, Body Politics, is an eye-opening exploration of the societal pressures placed on individuals to conform to certain beauty standards and the negative impact it has on their mental health. Bell's conversations with various individuals and groups shed light on the struggles they face and the inspiring work they are doing to promote body positivity and inclusivity.