Miss Sweden has dropped out of the Miss Universe pageant, as Swedes apparently think that the competition is degrading towards women, and "weighed down by scandals". Despite winning the title three times, Sweden claims that their own Miss Sweden contest is "taking a big beating by being linked" to the Miss Universe competition. Sweden has even taken such steps as to get ride of the swimsuit competition, and now requires that contestants apply to the competition like they would any other job.
However, Donald Trump and the Miss Universe Organization still swear that they're not degrading women. Despite holding on to certain aspects of the competition, such as the swimsuit and evening gown competition, since the 1950s, the president of the Miss Universe Organization, Paula M. Shugart, says: "We do change with the times." Really, Sarah? How? How is having someone parade around in heels and a bikini, or a ball gown relevant? Are they in the running for The Universe's Next Top Barbie?
The Miss Universe Organization also defends them self by saying that they only select "women who are intelligent, well-mannered and cultured" for the competition. I love how they use the word "intelligent" like, "No siree, we only got us smart womens in this here contest. No stupid women allowed. They're INTELLIGENT! So it's okay if we make them walk around in a swimsuit." Also, the MUO claiming they only pick "well-mannered and cultured" women for their little game is bull. Anyone remember the tramptastic pictures that caused the dethroning of Miss Nevada? Or Miss USA's little stint in rehab?
The MUO is also incredibly proud of themselves for finally having a bit of diversity in their competition. They brag that they're so "well rounded" as they have a contestant with dreadlocks, one with a shaved head, and another who helped build a 400-bed pediatric AIDS hospital and orphanage in Botswana. What the Miss Universe Organization doesn't understand is that they don't deserve praise and thanks for having three contestants (out of God knows how many) who are original and represent what the MUO should have been doing all along.
When they stop judging what makes a proper role model for the young women of the universe on her looks, and how she looks in a bathing suit - then we'll talk. Until then, I'm with Sweden.
Cate Sevilla is the Assistant Editor of Dollymix, and regular contributor to Shiny blogs. She's refusing to post the video of Miss USA falling. (But if you'd like to watch it, it's here.)
