## Woman Files Complaint Against Miss America for Banning Mothers
Danielle Hazel, a former beauty pageant hopeful, has filed a complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights after being denied eligibility to compete in Miss America due to having a son. Hazel claims that the pageant's "rule" prohibiting women with "legal dependents" from participating is discriminatory.
Woman Files Complaint Against Miss America for Banning Mothers
Danielle Hazel, a 19-year-old mother, was shocked and disappointed when she learned that she was not allowed to compete in the Miss America pageant because she had a son. Hazel, who says motherhood does not hinder her ability to pursue her dreams, believes that the pageant's rule perpetuates the stigma against single moms.
Hazel's complaint alleges that the "discriminatory requirement" prevents mothers from participating in a "business opportunity." She argues that single mothers often have support systems in place, such as parents or childcare providers, that allow them to fulfill their responsibilities.
Woman Files Complaint Against Miss America for Banning Mothers
The Miss America organization maintains that there is no ban against mothers, but rather a rule against contestants with legal dependents. The organization claims that this rule is in place to protect the welfare of minors.
Gloria Allred, Hazel's lawyer, has challenged similar rules in the past. In 2022, she successfully convinced Miss Universe to eliminate its 70-year-old rule against mothers competing.
Woman Files Complaint Against Miss America for Banning Mothers
Allred believes that the Miss America rule is outdated and perpetuates the stereotype that mothers should stay home with their children. She argues that mothers should not be excluded from business and social opportunities simply because they have children.
Hazel's complaint was received by the New York City Commission on Human Rights, which will investigate the allegations and determine whether to take further action.
Woman Files Complaint Against Miss America for Banning Mothers
Veronika Didusenko, a woman who was crowned Miss Ukraine in 2018, faced a similar situation. She was stripped of her title after it was discovered that she had a son. Didusenko has since launched the #RightToBeAMother global initiative to fight discrimination against young mothers in the beauty pageant industry.
Hazel's complaint and the ongoing #RightToBeAMother movement highlight the continued stigma against mothers in society. While some progress has been made, there is still work to be done to ensure that mothers are not discriminated against in all aspects of life.
The Miss America organization has stated that it adheres to high standards of conduct and ethics, including protecting the welfare of children. However, critics argue that the rule against mothers competing is discriminatory and perpetuates outdated stereotypes about motherhood.
As the investigation into Hazel's complaint continues, it remains to be seen whether the Miss America organization will reconsider its rule. The outcome of the investigation could have implications for other beauty pageants and organizations that have similar rules against mothers competing.
