I couldn't have been prouder of La Crosse, Wisconsin television anchor Jennifer Livingston after finding out that she stood up to viewer Kenneth W. Krause, who sent her a really mean e-mail criticizing her weight and her influence on young viewers. Livingston made sure her voice was heard when she responded with a very powerful message on-air. Since the attack, Livingston has gained the support of all her viewers, colleagues, family, and friends–and her courage illustrates what National Anti-Bullying Month this month is all about.
The cruel letter pretty much assaulted Livingston for seeing that her "physical condition hasn't improved for many years." He continues barraging her:
Surely you don't consider yourself a suitable example for this community's young people, girls in particular. Obesity is one of the worst choices a person can make and one of the most dangerous habits to maintain. I leave you this note hoping that you'll reconsider your responsibility as a local public personality to present and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Who is he to tell Livingston how to live and judge her as a bad role model? So when she made a point of responding to the bully on the air, it was amazing to see and hear: "We have to take a stand that attacks like this are NOT okay. The truth is, yes I am overweight… but to the person who sent me that letter: You don't KNOW me. You are not a friend of mine, you are not a part of my family, you have admitted that you don't watch the show, so you know nothing about me, but what you see on the outside." You go!
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What's worse is his attack is not only insulting but ignorant. During an appearance Livinston and her husband made earlier today on Good Morning America, Livingston's husband, Mike Thompson, said his wife suffers from a thyroid condition which makes it harder for her to lose weight, EVEN THOUGH she does maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Livingston's main concern is the fact that this type of bullying is learned by children. She spoke directly to the young viewers on her show, telling them: "Do NOT let youself be defined by bullies…The cruel words of one are nothing compared to the shouts of many."
There's nothing more I despise than a personal attack on someone–especially for their looks. I'm glad to see that Livingston put this mean viewer in his place and I hope her message was heard loud and clear by bullies everywhere!
Watch Livingston respond to the bully below:
Image via CNN
