Pageants banned in Antioquia’s public schools
Decree 1888 of August 3rd, 2012 issued by Antioquia’s Governor, Sergio Fajardo, bans “any type of event that highlights or rewards the physical attributes of girls completing their studies in official educational establishments”.
The goal is to promote an adequate educational atmosphere and “pedagogical practices that dignify the lives of girls and young women.”
According to Education Secretary, Felipe Gil, “What we want is basically to strengthen the talent of Antioquia’s youth, that’s why we promote events like academic challenges. We want our spaces to be true learning spaces.” The decree claims that runway shows, contests and beauty pageants do not contribute to the ethical development, nor do they offer girls the opportunity to develop their capacities but, on the contrary, constitute activities that are “discriminatory and humiliating” to women.
The debate is still open, however, because for some sectors the measure is cause for concern.
“We agree that women must be dignified above all other things, but it concerns us that people may reject activities like tailoring and dressmaking, which are so important in Antioquia. “I’m concerned about the negative message that may be conveyed to youngsters about this issue,” said CEO of Inexmoda, Carlos Eduardo Botero.
