Miss Michigan, Rima Fakih, is crowned Miss USA 2010 in Las Vegas on May 16, 2010, AP Photo
As if last week’s controversial photo shoot of Miss USA contestants in skimpy lingerie outfits wasn’t enough controversy for one year, this year’s eventual winner, Miss Michigan Rima Fakih, who was crowned in Las Vegas on Sunday May 16 2010, has sparked another debate – this time a political one. As the media failed to “dig up dirt” on Miss Michigan, except for a so-called “pole-dancing” competition video, talk has now turned to Rima Fakih’s background.
Rima Fakih is the first Lebanese-American immigrant to win Miss USA – and focus has now been turned on her Arab/Muslim background in an attempt to spark a political debate. As a country founded on immigration from all corners of the world, it should not come as a surprise that Miss USA contestants come from a multi-cultural background. However, attempts are being made to link Rima Fakih to “terrorist” activities in whatever shape or form can be made.
When did a beauty pageaent turn into a political arena? It is true that Miss USA contestants are asked some more “political” and “cultural” questions than in days gone by; Miss Oklahoma was asked for her views on the current controversial Arizona immigration law - but it appears that some people may be in fact losing sight of what the contest was originally about, that is the celebration of fashion and beauty. After all, the very “first” Miss USA started in 1952 as a “simple” local swimsuit competition in Long Beach, California 
