Pageantry Is A Feminist Activity
I am a feminist and Mrs. Ohio. For those of you who haven’t vied for a crown, my statement may seem contradictory. But, I assure you, it is not.
Pageantry holds a unique place in the fabric of American culture. In the early 20th century, female pageants were known as elaborate, theatrical events performed by women suffragists. In fact, suffragettes like Hazel MacKay used pageants as an ideal platform for women’s liberation. Showcasing historic female figures such as Joan of Arc and Florence Nightingale, pageants provided a stage for women to gain confidence, gain public support, and emulate female role models for those in the community. Fast forward to the 21st century, I believe pageants continue to provide the same space for women in every corner of America.
After completing my freshman year at Miami University with eye-opening courses like Intro to Women’s Studies and an internship on Capitol Hill, I walked into my sophomore year with a desire to do more. As an undergraduate, I looked to start a women’s group to help develop the self-esteem of young women. Young women like myself. Basically, I was searching for a space that would encourage and demand the best from me.
During this journey to establish a women’s organization, I was fortunate enough to encounter a strong southern woman and library archivist Jacky. She quickly became my mentor (and is to this day). After expressing my desires, I remember her four words like it was yesterday, “You need to compete.” I knew nothing about pageantry but I believed her. I took her advice.
As early as 19, pageants provided me that space. A space to find my voice and figure out my place in this world. It wasn’t necessarily the place the world designated for a woman like myself — but a place I created.
The many competitions, from Miss Mansfield, Miss Miami Valley, Miss Hamilton, Miss Ohio, and Miss District of Columbia, forced me to understand and articulate who I am. To find my best self.
I found confidence on stage. Pageants challenged me to know how to walk into a room, hold space, and command attention without saying a word. I can look individuals directly in the eye and feel comfortable in my own skin. I learned how to be a stronger advocate for issues I was passionate about like self-esteem in youth, character education, and financial literacy. Something, had I not competed, might have taken me decades to master.
But most importantly, pageantry is opportunity.
I have influenced policy, interviewed presidents and ambassadors from all over the world, and have mastered competing with grace through pageantry.
I am a feminist beauty queen because I believe pageants provide a stage for women to conquer the world.
As Mrs. Ohio United States, seeking to become Mrs. United States, I’m using this opportunity to be an advocate. To educate millions on issues facing our nation. Specifically, to ensure every woman’s voice and story is heard. Especially the hard, tragic, and difficult ones — because that is the only way policy will change.
In the words of Madeleine Albright, “it took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.”
#embraceyourvoice and know that you are not alone.
