Controversies Surrounding the Miss America Pageant: A Year in Review

For decades, the Miss America Pageant has stood as a cultural landmark, a beacon of beauty, talent, and aspiration for young women across America. However, behind its glamorous facade lies a series of controversies that have tested the organization's integrity and reputation. From the pressures of racial inclusivity to the pages of sportswriting, the Miss America Pageant has faced numerous challenges. This article examines some of the significant controversies that have surrounded the Miss America Pageant, highlighting the reasons behind them and the efforts to address these issues.

Sexual Misconduct and Controversies

One of the most notable controversies in the history of the Miss America Pageant was the forced resignation of Vanessa Williams in 1983. After some nude photos of her in lesbian-sex poses were published in Penthouse, a magazine known for its scandalous content, Bob Guccione, the publisher, printed the photos purely to harm the pageant and Vanessa Williams herself. This incident exposed the power dynamics and the pressure placed on contestants.

Williams, who was only weeks away from the end of her reign, went on to have a successful career as a singer and actress. The Miss America organization formally apologized to her last year, acknowledging the harm caused and the stigma she endured. This incident highlights the need for transparency and ethical conduct in such high-profile events.

Race and Diversity

The issue of race has been a persistent topic of discussion regarding the Miss America Pageant. In his book There She Is … the Life and Times of Miss America, Frank DeFord explores the racial dynamics within the pageant. For instance, Bess Myerson, the only Jewish Miss America, and Cheryl Browne, the only black Miss America, stand out as notable figures.

DeFord also points out a critical rule that once excluded contestants of non-white race. While the pageant's organization claimed that no such rule existed, the belief in its existence could have had a significant impact on contestants. It wasn't until after Lenora Slaughter retired that the diversity of contestants increased, underscoring the importance of organizational policies on inclusivity.

Feminism and Reform

The pageant has also faced scrutiny from the feminist movement. During the 1960s, the feminist movement criticized the pageant for promoting outdated and objectifying standards of beauty. While bra-burning became a symbol of the movement, it is noted that only one such ritual occurred, and it happened before a pageant. This led contestants to defend the pageant by emphasizing the scholarships awarded to the women, a practice that continues to this day.

Pageant Rules and Controversies

The Miss America Pageant has also had its fair share of rule changes and controversies. In 1943, Jean Bartel, Miss America, refused to be photographed in a bathing suit, leading to changes in the pageant's rules. Similarly, Yolande Betbeze, Miss America 1951, refused to pose in a bathing suit, arguing that she was an opera singer, not a pinup girl. Her refusal made more headlines, and Catalina, a swimsuit company, ceased its sponsorship, leading to the creation of the Miss Universe pageant.

The pageant has also had to navigate the issue of animal talent performances. In one incident, a contestant rode a horse onstage, which fell into the orchestra pit, leading to a rule change that barred contestants from using animals in their performances.

Recent Controversies and Reforms

In recent years, the Miss America Pageant has faced new controversies, including calls for its end. Gretchen Carlson, Miss America Chairwoman after leaving Fox News, attempted to modernize the pageant by eliminating the swimsuit and evening gown competitions and raising the age limit to 25. However, these changes were not well received, culminating in her forced resignation after a year.

To address these controversies, the Miss America organization has made efforts to improve inclusivity, transparency, and ethical conduct. They have also listened to the voices of critics and incorporated their feedback into their practices, ensuring that the pageant remains relevant and inclusive in the modern era.

Key Takeaways:

Miss America: A cultural icon with a rich history of controversies. Pageant Controversies: From sexual misconduct to racial inclusivity, the pageant has faced various challenges. Miss America Organizational Changes: Adaptations have been made to address modern critiques, including changes in rules and reforms to emphasize inclusivity.

Through these challenges, the Miss America Pageant continues to evolve, striving to meet the changing expectations of a diverse and modern audience.