Transcending Traditions in the Miss Universe Pageant

Categories: Donald Trump

In the Philippines, a country fervent about beauty pageants, the annual Miss Universe event stands out as a highly anticipated spectacle. Much like the nation's enthusiasm for boxing, Filipinos eagerly gather around their TV sets, captivated by the unfolding events of the pageant. The Miss Universe competition, second perhaps only to boxing in terms of global viewership, has seen considerable success for the Philippines, producing notable winners such as Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973. Recent contestants like Miriam Quiambao, Desiree Verdadero, Venus Raj, and Shamcey Supsup have also made impressive showings, attesting to the country's prowess in the pageantry.

The Miss Universe pageant, a global celebration of beauty, draws attention from both local and international media. The competition's allure is undeniable, and any news related to it becomes a hot topic. However, recent amendments to the pageant rules have added a new layer of intrigue and controversy, capturing the curiosity of the beauty-conscious populace even more.

Recent Success and Controversy

While Venus Raj secured the 4th runner-up position last year, Shamcey Supsup elevated the stakes by claiming the 3rd runner-up title this year.

Get quality help now
KarrieWrites
KarrieWrites
checked Verified writer

Proficient in: Donald Trump

star star star star 5 (339)

“ KarrieWrites did such a phenomenal job on this assignment! He completed it prior to its deadline and was thorough and informative. ”

avatar avatar avatar
+84 relevant experts are online
Hire writer

However, the recent buzz extends beyond the traditional excitement surrounding contestant performances. The spotlight is on the Miss Universe Organization's decision to allow transgender women to compete alongside biologically-born female contestants.

Public Reaction and Media Attention

The Filipino public, known for its pageant fervor, has displayed varied reactions to this groundbreaking decision. Some have welcomed the move, acknowledging it as a step towards inclusivity and equality.

Get to Know The Price Estimate For Your Paper
Topic
Number of pages
Email Invalid email

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

"You must agree to out terms of services and privacy policy"
Write my paper

You won’t be charged yet!

On the flip side, there is a faction that sneers at the idea, raising questions about the fairness of allowing transgender women to participate in a competition originally designated for biological females. This development has not only become a major talking point within the Philippines but has also garnered international media attention.

Controversial Amendments to Pageant Rules

The epicenter of the controversy is the inclusion of Jenna Talackova, a transgender woman from Canada, in the Miss Universe competition. Initially disqualified, Talackova's case sparked debates about the eligibility of transgender individuals in beauty pageants. The Miss Universe Organization, with owner Donald Trump's approval, eventually reversed the disqualification and announced plans to revamp the pageant rules to officially accommodate transgender women starting in 2013.

Diverse Sentiments and Public Discourse

Public sentiment is far from homogeneous. While many applaud the Miss Universe Organization's decision, others vehemently reject the notion of contestants who were not biologically born as females. This divide reflects broader societal views and raises questions about inclusivity, societal acceptance, and the evolving definition of beauty. In a predominantly Catholic/Christian country like the Philippines, the impact on the population, particularly the youth, is a subject of contemplation.

Miss Universe Organization's Perspective

Addressing the controversy, MUO President Paula Shugart stated that the decision to include transgender women resulted from ongoing discussions with the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Discrimination (GLAAD). Shugart emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting equality for all women, indicating that the decision was made after careful consideration. The acknowledgment of GLAAD's role in the decision also raises questions about the intersection of beauty pageants and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

Unanswered Questions and Considerations

The inclusion of transgender women in the Miss Universe pageant poses several unanswered questions. Is it fair to include transgender women in beauty pageants initially designated for biological females? What impact does this have on a predominantly Catholic/Christian country, especially on the youth? How do different segments of society react to this significant development? The ongoing discourse surrounding these questions adds complexity to an already multifaceted issue.

In conclusion, the Miss Universe pageant, a beacon of beauty and grace, has undergone a transformative moment with the inclusion of transgender contestants. The Philippines, with its rich history of success in the pageantry, finds itself at the forefront of a global conversation about inclusivity, diversity, and the evolving definition of beauty. As the nation grapples with these changes, the Miss Universe Organization's decision and the public's varied reactions highlight the dynamic interplay between tradition and progress in the realm of beauty pageants.

Updated: Jan 02, 2024
Cite this page

Transcending Traditions in the Miss Universe Pageant. (2020, Nov 18). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/the-inclusion-of-transgender-women-in-the-miss-universe-essay

Transcending Traditions in the Miss Universe Pageant essay
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment