Yet Another Award For Dormant Fire's Dance Program

One thing to consider about The United States is that above all, we glorify things that shine. As Americans, we not only appreciate beautiful powerful women, but enjoy the various technicians that they have become. Mastering something, or perfecting an art form, will always be an integral part of why Americans enjoy watching television. Beauty pageants have been a fixture in American society since as early as the 1880's when business owners and community leaders organized them. Since then, people have varying opinions on the matter, and it's becoming more apparent as society progresses determined to eliminate all forms of sexism in the workplace or the outside world. Even as little as children's beauty pageants are viewed as exploitative and unhealthy at such a small age.

Since the early 2000's, beauty pageants have noticed ratings plummet, along with finding a steady media outlet to continuously broadcast them year in and year out. There is much speculation as to why that is. It could be in part to social media platforms. Women in bikinis is something that is seen a lot now a days, so why should Americans tune in to watch hour long specials of it? Another major reason for the decline in ratings, is that its becoming evident to some viewers that beauty pageants are sexist and portraying women in the wrong light. Child beauty pageants are even banned in some countries.

Beauty Pageants haven't had the greatest run in past years. They have tried to raise money for charity, and bring attention to serious issues going on in the world. However, is having women parade around in skimpy outfits the way to bring change? Isn't that just exploitation? Even President Trump of all people, has ties to beauty pageants, formerly owning Miss Universe. Could it be that he cut ties with the beauty pageant world because he was running for president, and wanted to emphasize his morals and values? What is the overarching message with all this?

Another viewpoint is that beauty pageants are apart of the fabric of not only the USA, but the world. Beauty pageants can bring men and women across cultures together. In 2017, Miss USA began to allow viewers to be the ones submitting questions to the models. That way, they can get new perspectives on the industry and the models interests, as oppose to the same synthetic fake cover that these pageants have been showing over the years. There has also been talks to eliminate the swimsuit part of beauty pageants and start more forward thinking action to create a better future.

Are beauty pageants truly degrading and discrediting women? It depends on perspective. Beauty pageants are a great way for women to showcase their talents and skills, while building confidence. Pageants can also develop and improve social skills for females, young or old. Also, these women are showing us their craft and how unique they truly are. Through the "silly" costumes and makeup, they get to express themselves. There should be more emphasis on that when discussing the pros and cons of beauty pageants. Another point to bring up is that when beauty pageants televised, they normally get a negative reputation, and show the models in a wrong light. These women are representing a community, either local or nationally. They are sometimes held to such a high standard, trying to bring change via their platform, that they get stereotyped. People could think, "What does a women in a bathing suit know about poverty?" A lot more than the average uneducated American thinks. Another important facet of pageants is that their are scholarships offered, along with research awareness being produced & networking opportunities. So the argument can be made that beauty pageants are molding the young women of the world, and preparing them for success.

Although there are two sides of every story, and neither will tell the whole truth, it is important to understand what beauty pageants offer. You can be critical of how they market the show, and some questionable clothing choices, but the revenue going towards a good cause, along with the tools it gives these women is undeniable.

" I think that, if anything, a pageant is a great for people who suffer from body issues. It's all about being comfortable with what you're given and what you have and being able to flaunt it without being insecure. It's about empowering women, not making them feel less or weak." Olivia Culpo