A New York woman is challenging the longstanding rules of Miss America and Miss World, which disqualify mothers from competing. Danielle Hazel, 25, has always dreamed of participating in these influential beauty pageants. Her hopes were dashed when she discovered she was no longer eligible due to the status of being a mother to her son, Zion, whom she had at the tender age of 19.
During a press event held at the Women's Rights Pioneers Monument located in Central Park, Hazel shared her disappointment and her son's reaction to the news. "When I told Zion, who is now 6 years old, about these rules, he had an immediate gut reaction: he said these rules are stupid," Hazel recounted. Her son’s sense of fairness at such a young age signals to her how unjust and nonsensical these restrictions truly are.
Joining Hazel was her attorney, Gloria Allred, who announced the filing of a complaint with the New York City’s Commission on Human Rights. Allred emphasized the antiquated nature of the rules, which perpetuate the stereotype portraying women as unable to be both mothers and accomplished competitors. “This exclusion is degrading to Danielle as it is based upon the antiquated stereotype,” Allred stated, arguing against the idea of shaming mothers for their life choices.
The complaint is significant not just for Hazel but also as it highlights broader issues of discrimination against mothers pursuing professional opportunities. Allred argued, “Being pregnant or being a parent is not a crime and should not exclude anyone from employment or business opportunities.” This sentiment resonates with many who believe parenting shouldn’t come with societal stigma.
Despite hazarding some challenges, Allred’s track record showcases her determination. Previously, she achieved success when she challenged the same rule within the Miss California pageant after Andrea Quiroga was denied eligibility for being a parent. This legal grievance led to the Miss Universe Organization ditching its decades-old rule, showcasing the potential for change.
Another powerful voice at the event was Veronika Didusenko, who won Miss Ukraine 2018 but had her title revoked upon the Miss World organization discovering she had children. After losing her legal challenge within Ukraine, Didusenko has been actively seeking support from the European Court of Human Rights to overturn similar restrictions across beauty pageants.
Hazel's case sheds light on the rigid rules governing beauty pageants, which can sometimes clash with values of empowerment and inclusion. A representative for the Miss America pageant defended their regulations, noting there’s no outright ban on mothers—but restrictions do apply based on the legal custodianship of children. The pageant’s guidelines require all contestants to be U.S. citizens, female, single, and childless to qualify.
A notable point made by Stuart Moskovitz, the lawyer for the Miss America pageant, suggested the stipulation aims to protect children’s welfare, stating, “the only ban is where it’s necessary to protect the welfare of the child.” He underscored the demanding nature of the role, claiming it takes more dedication and time than the typical presidential duties.
Though the Miss World organization has yet to comment publicly on this matter, the norms surrounding beauty pageants are increasingly being questioned, with growing advocacy for inclusivity. Moms and advocates are banding together, highlighting their right to compete without sacrificing their identity as parents.
Pageantry is often portrayed as a space of beauty, poise, and talent. Yet, as recent events spotlight, it’s much more than surface-level glamour. It embodies broader societal dynamics and changing perceptions about women’s roles and capabilities.
Hazel and her allies are determined to challenge the status quo, signaling to the world of beauty pageants, and potentially beyond, the imperative to evolve with the times. They inspire discussions not only about beauty standards but about rights, fairness, and the multifaceted identities women can embody.
Could this lawsuit spark fundamental shifts within the beauty industry? Only time will tell. But what’s clear is the rallying cry for change is growing louder as mothers assert their right to shine just as brightly on stage as they do at home.
