More often than not, beauty pageants have received flak for objectifying women.
Models at beauty pageants continue to be judged in terms of their body shape and size, although certain plus-size models and transgenders are now also making it big at some of these contests.
One of these beauty pageants, Miss America, is, however, trying to rethink the concept. The beauty pageant recently announced that it will scrap its swimsuit round and will no longer judge participants based on their appearance.
The decision reportedly came on the heels of consistent requests and the burgeoning #MeToo movement against sexual harassment.
”We’re not going to judge you on your appearance because we are interested in what makes you you,” trustee and former Miss America Gretchen Carlson said on the TV show Good Morning America. Women who hoped to enter the pageant had requested that they didn’t want to be ”out there in high heels and swimsuits”, she added.
Contestants will now reportedly take part in a live interactive session with the judges, during which they will be asked to explain their passion, intellect and comprehension of the responsibilities that come with being crowned Miss America.
”We’re experiencing a cultural revolution in our country with women finding the courage to stand up and have their voices heard on many issues. Miss America is proud to evolve as an organisation and join this empowerment movement,” said Carlson.
Miss America organizers are also planning to alter the evening wear segment of the contest so that contestants can wear outfits of their choice.
