Shamima Ali, coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), has taken a bold stance against beauty pageants in Fiji, urging for their elimination and advocating for the celebration of the country’s rich culture through alternative festivals. Her remarks arise amidst increasing concerns about the potential negative impacts of Fiji’s participation in events such as the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.
Ali emphasized that the FWCC has consistently opposed beauty contests, citing the risks of harm and exploitation that may be faced by women and girls partaking in them. While acknowledging that women have the right to engage in these contests, she pointed out that they are not separate from the larger cultural issues that often lead to the objectification of women. “These events are embedded in a mainstream culture where women are presented for visual consumption, often playing into a narrative geared towards the male gaze,” Ali articulated.
The FWCC has recalled several troubling incidents associated with beauty pageants, including allegations of sexual harassment, coercive environments, and management conflicts. In response to these concerns, the organization has provided counseling to women affected by trauma stemming from their involvement in such contests.
Ali further criticized beauty pageants for fostering competition among women based on arbitrary beauty standards, questioning the criteria that frequently exclude certain individuals, such as mothers or married women. She contended that if pageants are to be deemed empowering, they should focus on creating authentic opportunities for women, offering educational scholarships and personal growth initiatives, rather than prioritizing appearance-driven competition.
Her statements highlight a larger dialogue regarding the relevance and consequences of beauty contests in modern society. Ali’s call for the cessation of such pageants in favor of nurturing a more supportive and respectful environment for women aligns with a burgeoning sentiment that seeks to empower rather than exploit. By shifting focus to festivals that celebrate cultural heritage without competition, Fiji can continue to honor its traditions while fostering positive empowerment for women.