Positivity in Pageants Today

Pageants are a growing activity in today's society. Many children participate in pageants but many young women do also. For instance, the Miss USA & Miss America system are two of the most popular pageant systems today. Miss America has had some new obstacles arise as the swimsuit portion has been removed under the new director of the pageant, Gretchen Carlson. Many people have different views on this subject but no matter what your view is, I think we can all agree Gretchen is trying to make it more diverse and welcoming to all women.

Some people say pageants are negative and focus on outward beauty, but I disagree. As a competitor in pageants, I have gained confidence and poise in the way that I carry myself. I have learned many public speaking skills and overcame the feeling of nerves and fear. Before every pageant, I get nervous like you would expect but when I hit that stage you forget your problems and focus on yourself and your confidence. I would say that's when I feel the most beautiful, walking across that stage knowing this is my time.

Also, most pageant systems want to know what their contestants think about today's society and how they want to make an impact on it. It’s all about thinking for yourself, being confident, and showing that you understand what's relevant. Many young girls that have participated in pageants have became amazing role models for younger children & have helped benefit our society in a positive way. Pageants have helped them get to where they are now.

For example, Oprah Winfrey was Miss Black TN in 1971. Halle Berry was Miss Ohio USA in 1986 and first runner-up in Miss USA. These are just a few remarkable women who have competed in pageants. Also, the Miss America Organization is founded on the principle of scholarships and getting an education, which is another great reason many young college students compete in this pageant. Education is very important and these young women see this as a opportunity to further their careers. You can also have access to many amazing opportunities for volunteering and learning about the world around us, that you might not have had otherwise.

Pageants impact today's society in a positive way, focusing on volunteering and ways to help the community. Our society needs these young women to lead us and not be afraid to speak out like Miss America 2018, Cara Mund. Cara has vocally spoke out about her frustrations and mistreatment from the Miss America Organization. That is not to discourage the organization, it is only to make it better for the next Miss America. Pageants can also show us that many of these young beautiful women are also very intelligent and have sought after their own goals, which is a great accomplishment in itself. Pageants have helped me grow in so many unique ways and have taught me life lessons as well. I have learned that you can’t win everything, and confidence is key! But don't be cocky & to always encourage and be a light to those around you. Pageants are so much more fun when you are encouraging and just there to have fun and do your best, no matter the outcome. I encourage everyone to at least go watch a pageant and see all the hard preparation put to use!