Last week, FTVLive told you about the viewer that thought it was okay to body shame WITN (Eastern North Carolina) Anchor Lauren Baker.

It is not okay.

Then 5 days ago, we shared an email from a former News Director that said how he would have handled the situation with the Anchor.

Now, a current female News Director is giving her thoughts on the former News Director’s email.

Mr. Jones,  

 As a current (female) News Director, I felt compelled to reach out as I am appalled by the email from the “former ND” regarding the WITN reporter being publicly shamed.

I have three words for that person. Shame on you.

I can promise that your opinions DO NOT represent all current and past News Directors, and I seriously hope aspiring News Managers do not read your hurtful comments. Your response only exacerbates an already horrible situation.  

 It is our job to support and defend our people when they are being unfairly attacked. It is NOT our jobs to tell people how they should live their lives and provide unsolicited advice about their weight when you have no clue about their health. And to compare “pointing out’ someone’s size to what we do as Journalists (highlighting injustice and corruption) is preposterous.

 You would enroll her in a health program? Get her a personal trainer and dietician? Create a segment once again highlighting exactly what she is being shamed for? I like to see the best in everyone so perhaps you truly believe you would be helping her, but it simply is NOT your place. She represents real women, our viewers. She is happy in her own skin. Who are you to tell her she should not be?

 Our jobs as News Directors are to help develop our people into better Journalists. Build them up, not tear them down. Give them the confidence and support to succeed. Be their biggest cheerleader and let them know as a hardworking, responsible, and determined Journalist, we will always have their back.