Some oppose beauty pageants because they feel they exclusively promote the external aspects of womanhood. I’ve attended several local pageants and witnessed the hard work that takes place during rehearsals. I’ve seen the courage it takes to perform for a live audience and the long-term friendships that occasionally blossom between contestants. However, I was quite surprised by a Facebook post written by a current Miss BC contestant.
Klara wrote, “…Most major pageants don't allow you to participate if you're a mother. Miss Universe states that contestants can 'never have been pregnant, married or given birth to a child. Miss Universe must remain unmarried throughout her entire reign.” She states, women who have given up a child for adoption, acted as a surrogate, or have lost a child are also eliminated from consideration.
Paraphrasing Klara she continues, pageants claim to be about empowering women yet they exclude women who have done exactly what their bodies are designed to do: bear children. Even Victoria Secret models are taking Maternity Leave, having babies then getting back on the catwalk. Discriminating against mothers is not only wrong, it reinforces the idea that once you become a mother you have to give up on your ambitions. While parenthood does involve sacrifice it doesn't mean giving up on your aspirations. Miss BC was happy to accept me as a contestant and have my role as a mother be the foundation of my platform.
The Miss BC, Miss Teen BC and the Mrs. BC Pageants will be held on July 1st - 3rd, 2016 in Fort Langley, BC. For more information visit www.MissBC.ca.
Thanks to Ting's Makeup Artistry for hair & make-up.
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