“Stop Asian Hate.” Many Miss Universe participants gave strong slogans with their items to millions. Contestants in a traditional costume contest which contained Singapore, Myanmar and Uruguay issued messages related to anti-Asian hatred, international interest in Myanmar’s coup, and opposition to gender minority discrimination.
According to a video posted by Miss Universe Bernadette Belle Ong who is a Singaporean actress, emcee, model, and beauty pageant titleholder came out wearing an outfit in the colors of Singapore’s national flag with three words in red which mean the equality for all and in white which mean everlasting virtues: “Stop Asian Hate.” She grabbed the cape and turned around so that everyone could see her message against Asian hate that has increased due to Covid-19.
Thuzar Wint Lwin known as Candy is a Burmese model and a beauty pageant titleholder who represents Myanmar. Lwin took to the competition with a sign saying “Pray for Myanmar.” She raised her arms in the hall, opened the sign to the audience, and held it.
De los Santos is an Uruguayan representative. Santos has long advocated the rights of sexual minorities and she showed her rainbow skirt. The rainbow-patterned costumes symbolized the human rights of sexual minorities that she widened her arms in the hall. The skirt said said “No More Hate, Violence, Rejection, and Discrimination.”
By: Hyein Hwang