By Aneesa Malik
With the first ever Miss America pageant show won by Nina Davuluri, a 24 year old aspiring doctor of Indian descent, what does this really mean for our feminist heritage, which fought for our right to be seen beyond our appearance.
The 2014 winner said: “I’m so happy this organisation has embraced diversity. I’m thankful there are children watching at home who can finally relate to a new Miss America”.
But, her expertise progress far beyond her gorgeous smile. The 24-year-old Fayetteville, New York, native was on the dean’s list and earned the Michigan Merit Award while studying at the University of Michigan, where she graduated with a degree in brain behavior and cognitive science.
Her father, who emigrated from India 30 years ago, is a gynecologist, and Davuluri said she’d like to become a physician one day as well.
“During her year as Miss America she will serve as spokesperson for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) this year as she travels to Washington, D.C., to work with the Department of Education,” according to a Miss America statement.
She also is passionate about healthy lifestyles after battling obesity and bulimia when she was younger.
MacKenzie Mayes, Miss Monticello 1999 winner said: “My involvement in the Miss America Organisation and my “Making a Commitment to Kids” (MACK) literacy platform have opened my eyes to the true meaning of “wearing the crown.” I know that a crown is just an inanimate object, but it’s what I can do with the crown through my platform that makes the Miss America Organization so special to me, and so worthy of dedicating my time. Regardless of the outcome of the actual competition, when you can step out of yourself and make a difference in the lives of others, you are a winner in this program.”
Such talent shows that judge women based on their appearance, embrace their contribution to the society. That is, these shows give such women a platform to share their views with the rest of the world and make a change.
It would seem beauty is a sign of intelligence.
