One TV anchor in Dallas is making headlines, but it’s not for her journalism. It’s for her on-air attire.
Channel 8’s traffic reporter Demetria Obilor, typically seen in colorful, knee-length dresses, was recently called out on social media for her appearance.
“Has anyone seen Channel 8’s new morning traffic reporter? Her name is Demetria Obilor & she’s a size 16/18 woman in a size six dress and she looks ridiculous,” a Facebook user wrote in a now-deleted post. “I understand that when I watch Channel 8 I’m going to get biased reporting and political correctness, but clearly they have taken complete leave of their senses. I’m not going to watch Channel 8 anymore.”
When a Twitter user uploaded a screenshot of the criticism, it quickly went viral, garnering more than 10,000 retweets and over 20,000 likes.
But people weren't adding to the denunciation. Instead, they were coming to the defense of Obilor, who began at the station in October.
A few criticized the focus on her clothes rather than her work as a newswoman.
Others blamed a culture of sexualizing women especially those with curvier or full-figured shapes.
»RELATED: Plus-size model posts viral video after being body-shamed
A few celebrities, including Chance the Rapper, even chimed in.
Overall, most just showered Obilor or “#trafficbae” with compliments.
The media maven eventually responded to the all of the hoopla on Twitter, thanking supporters for the encouragement. She also addressed the “haters” for the negativity.
“This is the way that I am built. This is the way that I was born,” she said. “I’m not going anywhere. So if you don’t like it, you have your options.”
Take a look at her full response below.
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