Every summer, the media floods us with pictures that make us look closely at women’s bodies and keep up unrealistic standards. Every year, body shaming has become a disturbing tradition thanks to embarrassing photos taken by reporters and harsh news stories.

There are important questions that this show brings up, like why are women’s bodies public property? Why do people love making fun of women who dare to get older or who don’t fit society’s ideas of beauty?

At the heart of this problem is the idea that women should fit a certain standard of beauty. If you don’t follow this standard, you will be laughed at and criticized. The “bikini body” ideal has led to a whole industry of fad diets and health goods, which reinforces the idea that women should always try to fit society’s standards for their bodies.

Another sin is getting old. Older men are often praised for their gray hair and wrinkles, but older women are harshly criticized for them. Men can age with ease, but women are expected to stay young and perfect. This is a clear case of discrimination.

The paparazzi are a big part of this shameful practice because they catch women at weak times and make them public spectacles. People are mean on social media and in magazines because of these unflattering pictures.

When people shame others’ bodies, terrible things happen. Studies have shown that seeing these kinds of ads can make people feel bad about their bodies, have low self-esteem, and have mental health problems. Not only does this society hurt celebrities, but it hurts all women.

We need a change in the way we think about media to stop this. We shouldn’t keep harmful stereotypes alive; instead, we should celebrate difference and acceptance. Women shouldn’t have to worry about what other people think about what they wear.

We need to end the season of shaming and realize that everyone deserves to be happy. Everyone is beautiful, no matter what age, size, or shape they are. Let’s change the story this summer and let women enjoy the sun without being stopped by critical eyes.

We need to take back the bikini as a sign of strength, not shame. There is no need for women to apologize or be watched when they are being themselves. Now is the time to stop putting ourselves down by body shaming and accept our own beauty.