Diversity is a Key Component of the Beauty Pageant Industry

Diversity is a key component of the growing beauty pageant industry. Contestants are not only gorgeous, but also accomplished professionals – scientists, lawyers, doctors, and educators have won Miss USA competitions. Many are also first-time pageant winners – a feat made possible by the rhinestone-studded wigs and sparkling crowns. The Miss USA competitions are no exception, as the first ever crowned captain in the U.S. Army Reserve, Deshauna Barber, and third-place winner Kara McCullough, are among the many women making history.

While child sexualization is an unfortunate aspect of pageants, many mothers and daughters see it as an essential part of a balanced life. Some even badger their parents to let them participate. For example, one 10-year-old girl, named Sophie, managed to raise PS300 to pay for a pageant outfit, as her family couldn’t afford to send her to school for a month. And many parents don’t think this is enough to prevent child sexualization.

Some critics view beauty pageants as exploitative, forcing children to imitate adult mannerisms, and reinforcing the message that physical appearance is all-important. One child protection charity director, Claude Knights, has noted that child pageants instill a sense of superficial self-worth in young girls. Whether you want to believe it or not, beauty pageants are a great way to teach children self-esteem and confidence.