Miss America is far from perfect. She embodies humanity, constantly evolving, facing challenges, and embodying resilience. On September 8th, the Miss America Organization marked its centennial, celebrating 100 years of influencing American culture and society.
Throughout its history, Miss America has both transformed and challenged societal beauty standards. Once a contentious swimsuit competition on the Atlantic City boardwalk, it has since evolved into a program that annually provides over $5 million in scholarships to women nationwide. Despite critiques from figures like John Oliver, Miss America remains one of the leading scholarship sources for women and girls in the U.S.
The contestants of Miss America go on to achieve remarkable successes as doctors, lawyers, educators, and public servants, showcasing the organization’s commitment to empowering women. However, Miss America’s history has been a complex journey filled with both significant achievements and serious missteps.
Highs:
The pageant began as a modern contest for bathing beauties in a time when modesty ruled, with Margaret Gorman crowned as the first “Miss America” in 1921, representing a new era for women.
Lows:
From 1941 to 1967, Lenora Slaughter enforced discriminatory rules, including one that mandated contestants be of the white race, perpetuating decades of exclusion.
Highs:
In 1945, the introduction of scholarships propelled the organization to become the forefront provider of educational funding for women.
Lows:
It wasn’t until 1970 that a Black woman, Cheryl Brown, won a state title, leading to her participation in the Miss America pageant. Vanessa Williams made history as the first Black Miss America in 1984 but was forced to relinquish her crown later that year due to personal circumstances.
Highs:
The introduction of a national platform in 1989 shifted the focus to advocacy, encouraging women to champion community causes.
Lows:
In the wake of the #MeToo movement, the organization faced criticism for its treatment of titleholders.
Miss America’s history is a tapestry of progress and pitfalls. Despite its flaws, my experience competing was invaluable. Growing up, I couldn’t envision myself as a beauty queen. My first memory of the pageant was watching Ericka Dunlap’s interview with Oprah after she won Miss America 2004, seeing in her a reflection of myself.
However, it would take years for me to shed my insecurities and gain the courage to compete. Ultimately, I discovered that Miss America is less about beauty and more about competing against your best self.
The competition enhanced my confidence, but more importantly, it empowered me to find my voice. It challenged me to engage critically with current issues and seek solutions for my community. Although I encountered criticism regarding my appearance, I learned that such experiences are part of the broader societal landscape.
My engagement with Miss America has placed me at the intersection of diverse perspectives on race and social justice. While some may view my support as insufficiently progressive, I believe it reflects the complexity of America itself—one that allows for growth, regression, and ultimately, progress.
I’m heartened by the advancements Miss America has made in recent years, including the crowning of women of color, renewed focus on talent and advocacy, and a commitment to body positivity. While challenges remain, these developments are worth celebrating. Vanessa Williams once said, “For better or worse, Miss America will always be a part of me,” and I echo her sentiment.
Happy 100th Birthday, Miss America. Here’s to another century of growth.