The Miss Finland contestant has had her title revoked based on the backlash she received for racist comments that she posted on social media. The move has sparked widespread condemnation globally, leading her organizers to make the decision.
The controversy began with 22-year-old Sara Dzafse, a representative of Finland at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, posting a photo on social media in which she could be seen moving her fingers towards the corners of her eyes. She posted this photo with a message that read, “Eating with a Chinese.”
The photo and caption were highly criticized among the Asian community, especially in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea, who regarded them as offense and racism. The move also received criticism on social media platforms, leading to a storm of negative reactions.
Owing to the mounting public outcry, Dzafse apologized for her actions. Nevertheless, her apology and explanation were considered to be inadequate by the public, who continued to call for explanations. Under mounting pressure and with the international community criticizing her, the Miss Finland organizing committee had no option but to disqualify her and strip her of her title.
Commenting on the event, the Prime Minister of Finland called the actions taken by Dzafse “irresponsible and ill-considered,” since the event had embarrassed the country internationally. “Such behavior does not belong to the value and tradition of Finland,” the Prime Minister added.
In an official statement, the Miss Finland organization pointed out the fact that racism and mockery towards any nationality and culture are not acceptable at all and that a zero-tolerance policy towards these matters will be adhered to. Also mentioned in the statement was the fact that the aim of beauty pageants is the spreading of positive values and not hatred or any form of racism.
There have been similar occurrences at the Miss Universe pageant before, but pageant organizers all over the world are emphasizing the significance of being culturally sensitive as well as being responsible in terms of using social media correctly. This particular incident brings back into focus the extent of scrutiny that public personalities undergo. The case of Dzafse’s dethronement underscores a new emphasis on accountability at international events, particularly the need for those who participate to maintain the highest possible standards of dignity and decorum. The Miss Finland organization has indicated that, in the future, further instruction will be provided at the events to ensure that those who attend are cognizant of the broader cultural context of their online behavior.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to opinion@minutemirror.com.pk and minutemirrormail@gmail.com
Comments are closed.