Gigi Hadid Defends Her Modeling Career And Body On Instagram

For a girl that has 6.5 million followers on Instagram, you would think that model-of-the-moment Gigi Hadid is supported by the masses. After all, her social media page generates an average of some 300+ thousand likes per picture.

Though Gigi clearly has a strong fan base that ‘double-taps’ her flawless photos, some have chosen to hound the comments section with hateful body-shaming statements instead.

On Monday, Gigi sent a powerful message to the public:

“Yes, I have boobs, I have abs, I have a butt, I have thighs, but I’m not asking for special treatment. Your mean comments don’t make me want to change my body.”

She continued by explaining that her figure is different from the average runway model, but that doesn’t mean she is less qualified, or too entitled.

“No, I don’t have the same body type as other models in shows. No, I don’t think I’m the best at any given shows. Yes, I want to have a unique walk but I also know I have to improve. No, I’m not the first or the last model of my type in this industry.”

A photo posted by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid) on Sep 28, 2015 at 4:25am PDT

Following her bold post, celebrities and models alike have stepped forward to support Gigi’s words.

Kris Jenner praised Gigi, writing,

“This is from one of the sweetest, smartest, and most beautiful girl inside and out, in the world. Why do people with no life, no purpose, who are angry and bitter and ignorant, or just plain nasty and mean, choose to bring everyone else down instead of finding the best in others? I will never understand the BULLYS that lurk on Instagram just to try and ruin someone else’s spirit. If all of their horrible negative energy was focused on being positive and seeing good, imagine what a better more peaceful place this world would be. Spread love and joy everyone, not hate. It only reflects what kind of person you are. Something good might come of it…lift others up. Do unto others as you would like done to you….Love One Another.”

Gigi expressed her gratitude to best friend Kendall Jenner’s mom, tweeting, “Love you, thank you.”

Fashion/modeling icon Tyra Banks reposted Gigi’s words, and captioned the photo,

I haven’t met you yet @gigihadid but I FEEL you so much. Your words are powerful. Your words are necessary. Your words are vulnerable. Your words are real. Sending you love and hugs. From one model that had curves and a unique walk to another, Tyra

https://twitter.com/GiGiHadid/status/648528403893723136