Confidently beautiful as a wife and mom!
By: Ces Mica A. Bringas
She is a woman. A mother, a wife, a transwoman, a maiden; she is a woman, not less but forever
capable of becoming more.
The renowned and prestigious Miss Universe Organization (MUO) ushered a trailblazing
dimension to the competition by starting its journey to inclusivity in the pageant world. Opposite to the
stereotypical exclusive-to-maidens search, the industry is now welcoming of transwomen, moms, and
married women to promote their advocacy. While not all countries and cultures may subscribe to this
new rule, it is interesting to note that MUPh stands in good stead with the org by allowing three moms to
compete this year.
Alas, some pageant fans still typecast the event for single women and go against the drive for
inclusivity. What a way to use the platform! MUO is finally allowing women from various walks of life a
chance to spread love and leave an impact! Isn’t it great? A woman's marital status should not define her
ability to influence the universe, and neither should motherhood take away her chance to prove herself.
Society should not deny a woman a chance to demonstrate authenticity, credibility, and talent because
of her marriage certificate. She is deserving and worthy. She is beautiful, intellectual, and graceful –
married or not!
“There are pageants for married women and they should stick to their group”, they said. How
hegemonic and insular can we get? The MUO is refitting to serve as an avenue where women find
themselves and achieve their purpose. It should not be an aperture for prejudices. They started to revamp
their rulebook to uplift women. They deemed it fair and necessary. But why do some of us put our women
down? Why do fans act all offended and go against the participation of mothers and married women? A
few women put moms and wives joining the pageant in a bad light – booing and raising eyebrows. Rather
than contempt, we should feel proud that they will finally take centerstage to outpour the nation’s
consciousness with the language they speak – unconditional love, compassion, and kindness.
While some view it as politically incorrect, inconsistent, and inappropriate, I deem it a milestone.
Before women fought for their rights and they did it together. They fought for women of all civil statuses,
social statuses, and races. Let this mark other women leaving impeccable footprints in history. Then and
now, women continue to strike out discriminatory policies. It was like before when women came together
to fight for their rights to education and suffrage. Should you disallow a woman to vote and study because
she is a wife and a mom? No! Everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities in all ways.
The organization’s step to a more inclusive MU is an outstanding breakthrough in the industry.
Inclusivity is and will always be a step closer to the future. This will open new opportunities for all women.
This change will bring our society closer to ending discrimination, biases, prejudices, and insularities. Yes,
it is only a matter of time to get the approval of those against it. In fact, their dissent could mean that they
find the idea foreign. With the right amount of persistence, they will learn to embrace it.
With this MUOs’ new vision, a woman's guts, determination, and drive to make a difference is all
it takes to be Miss Universe. It is not the crown, the gown, or the status that makes a queen. It is her voice.
A fearless voice, a comforting voice ready to conquer the universe with grace and audacity amidst
adversity.