NY Woman Takes on Miss America, Miss World Rules Banishing Mothers from Pageants

Mothers challenge beauty pageant rules disqualifying them, advocating for inclusion and fairness.

In a world full of what society expects, one woman from New York is shaking things up by challenging the old-school rules of beauty pageants that kick out moms—a move that’s not just changing the game for Miss America and Miss World but also showing that being a mom and being beautiful can go hand in hand.

Danielle Hazel, driven by her dream to compete, stood her ground at the Women’s Rights Pioneers Monument in New York, a place that symbolizes standing up against outdated beliefs.

“I was crushed when I found out I was kicked out for having my son when I was 19,” Hazel shared. But what really hit home was her son Zion’s reaction.

5The 6-year-old’s simple comment about the rules being “stupid” really hit home: fairness should know no limits, especially when it comes to a parent’s identity.

Hazel’s lawyer, the tough-as-nails Gloria Allred, has filed a complaint with the city’s Commission on Human Rights, arguing that these unfair practices are taking away moms’ chances to shine in a field that should celebrate all kinds of diversity.

“This is just wrong,” Allred said, pointing out that being a mom doesn’t take away beauty, talent, or drive.

Hazel isn’t the first to fight for her spot. Veronika Didusenko, who lost her Miss Ukraine title when pageant officials found out she had a child, is also standing with Hazel and Allred in this fight for recognition.

She represents the struggles that many women face when trying to break free from old-fashioned stereotypes.

As the push for acceptance grows, the big question is: can beauty pageants change to include all aspects of womanhood, including the important role of being a mom?

As Hazel and her team move forward, they’re showing the way for change, and with that, a fairer world for all women, including moms.