The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) is a non-profit, civil-rights organization in the United States dedicated to improving the quality of life for the obese. NAAFA works to eliminate discrimination based on body size and provide fat people with the tools for self-empowerment through public education, advocacy, and member support.
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History
NAAFA was founded in 1969 by William Fabrey in New York City as the "National Association to Aid Fat Americans." In its early years, social activities and letter-writing campaigns were a major part of the organization. As the organization turned more toward political activism, the name was changed during the 1980s.
NAAFA has a yearly national convention in summer, which is usually alternated between the east and west coasts. In 2008 they introduced the "NAAFA Size Diversity Toolkit" to educate corporations on quality of life issues. As part of its ongoing campaign, NAAFA also opposes airline policies regarding charging fat people for each seat they use.
NAAFA Chairman Jason Docherty died at age 46 as a result of complications from pneumonia.