Danielle Hazel, a 25-year-old New Yorker, has filed a complaint with the New York City Human Rights Commission against the Miss America and Miss World beauty pageants, alleging discrimination due to her status as a mother.
Hazel, who has a six-year-old son, was disqualified from participating in the pageants due to their eligibility rules, which require contestants to be unmarried, childless, and without dependents. Hazel’s lawyer, Gloria Allred, a prominent women’s rights advocate, argued that these rules perpetuate outdated stereotypes that women cannot balance motherhood with beauty, poise, and talent.
“My dream of competing in those pageants is still on hold today because of their discriminatory entry requirements,” Hazel stated.
Allred emphasized, “Being pregnant or being a parent is not a crime, and should not exclude an individual from employment or business opportunities.” She noted that she has previously sued Miss Universe for similar reasons.
This complaint comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding US beauty pageants. Recently, the 2023 winners of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA resigned, citing mental health concerns and a toxic work environment.
Miss America, founded in 1921, and Miss World are among the most prestigious beauty pageants in the United States. Hazel’s complaint challenges the pageants’ eligibility rules, seeking to promote inclusivity and equality for mothers and caregivers.
The complaint alleges that the pageants’ rules violate New York City’s human rights law, which prohibits discrimination based on family status, marital status, and gender.
