Pageantry is often synonymous with glamorous gowns, perfectly styled hair and makeup, and a parade of beautiful women strutting on stage. It is easy to buy into the stereotypes and dismiss pageantry as nothing more than a superficial beauty contest. However, as someone who recently competed in a state Miss USA pageant, I can confidently say that there is far more to pageantry than meets the eye.
When I first decided to compete in a pageant, I was met with mixed reactions. Some people were thrilled and supportive, while others questioned my motives and dismissed it as a waste of time. But for me, pageantry was not just about wearing pretty dresses and winning a crown. It was about using my platform to make a positive impact and inspire change.
Contrary to popular belief, pageantry is not just about outer beauty. In fact, it is an excellent platform for women to showcase their intelligence, talent, and passion for various causes. With the spotlight on them, pageant contestants have the opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for issues that are close to their hearts.
I had the privilege of using my pageant journey to advocate for mental health awareness. As someone who has personally struggled with anxiety and depression, this cause is incredibly important to me. During the preliminary and final rounds, I spoke about the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting self-care. I also collaborated with mental health organizations and conducted awareness campaigns, reaching a wider audience than I ever could have on my own.
But it’s not just about the causes we choose to support, pageantry also teaches valuable skills that are applicable in the real world. Contestants undergo rigorous training in public speaking, interview skills, and self-presentation. These are all essential abilities that can be used in any professional setting. Pageantry also encourages personal growth, boosts self-confidence, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
Moreover, pageantry has the power to bring people from different backgrounds together. During the pageant week, I had the opportunity to interact with women from various cultures, religions, and walks of life. We shared stories, learned from each other, and formed lasting friendships. Pageantry breaks down barriers and celebrates diversity, promoting inclusivity and unity.
One of the most significant misconceptions about pageantry is the focus on physical appearance. While it is true that contestants are judged on their physical attributes, it is not the only factor that determines the winner. Pageants also place importance on intelligence, talent, and personality. Contestants are expected to be well-spoken, well-rounded individuals who can effectively represent their community.
Pageantry also offers an excellent platform for young women to learn about the importance of community service. Many pageants require contestants to participate in various charitable activities, promoting a culture of giving back. This instills a sense of responsibility and compassion within contestants, encouraging them to become active members of society.
In addition to these benefits, pageantry also serves as a form of entertainment. It allows people to come together and celebrate beauty, talent, and diversity. It is a chance to showcase the best of what our country has to offer and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women.
But perhaps the most significant impact of pageantry is its ability to influence public policy. As pageant winners, titleholders have a powerful platform to raise awareness and advocate for change. They often work closely with government officials and get involved in initiatives that focus on various social issues. For instance, Miss USA 2020, Asya Branch, uses her platform to address criminal justice reform and promote educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals.
More recently, pageantry has been used to bring attention to important political and social issues. In 2019, Miss Michigan, Kathy Zhu, was stripped of her title after refusing to remove a “Make America Great Again” hat during a pageant interview. This sparked a debate on freedom of speech and political neutrality within pageants.
Pageantry has also been used to promote environmental awareness, support the LGBTQ+ community, and advocate for women’s rights. These efforts have shown that pageantry is not just about beauty and entertainment; it is a powerful tool for change.
In conclusion, pageantry is far more than just a superficial beauty contest. It is a platform for inspiring change, promoting personal growth, and advocating for important causes. It brings people from diverse backgrounds together, breaking down stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. So the next time you hear the word “pageantry,” think beyond the stereotypes and recognize the