The image of modern Hmong Lao women Reflections through the context of a beauty pageant

Abstract

This article aims to study the contemporary portrayal of Lao Hmong women. By studying through the context of a beauty pageant, specifically within the context of beauty pageants. The analysis incorporates feminist perspectives to interpret data obtain from various sources, including interviews with Payengsa Lo, Miss Universe LAO 2023, as well as magazines, articles, news newspapers, entertainment newspapers, and online media, including interviews on Facebook and YouTube. Data was collected and updated online from December 30, 2022, to May 30, 2023, constituting a secondary data collection approach. This data was subsequently subjected to qualitative research methods and presented in the form of descriptive explanations.

                 The study revealed three distinct images of contemporary Hmong Lao women in Lao society. First, there is the traditional portrayal of Hmong Lao women, firmly rooted in a gender-binary framework, where their status predominantly revolves around their role as women in a male-dominated society, dictated by societal norms, limited rights, and restricted freedom. Second, there emerges an image of Hmong Lao women who challenge these traditional norms, particularly in terms of accessing educational systems and striving to become self-reliant in their roles as wives and mothers. Third, a modern image of Hmong Lao women emerges, depicting their evolving social status, which engages with society to demonstrate their capabilities on public platforms and assume leadership roles both within organizations and at the national level. The study sheds light on the evolving social roles of Hmong Lao women and their determination to break free from the entrenched patriarchal dominance within Hmong Lao culture, customs, and traditions, where women have traditionally had limited autonomy over their own lives. This drive has led Hmong Lao women to venture into the public sphere, such as beauty pageants, as a means to showcase their abilities and advocate for acceptance, understanding, and enhanced opportunities for women in society.