Tennessee House Bill HJR0865

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Engrossed: 2/8/24
• Enrolled: 2/15/24
• Passed: 2/21/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to honor and commend the Mrs. Tennessee America Pageant, director Bernadette McCann, and reigning queens Amy Rottero, Kayla Dressen, and Claire Portilla.

Impact

The passage of HJR0865 acknowledges the impact of the Mrs. Tennessee America Pageant on promoting health, wellness, and self-confidence particularly among young women. The resolution celebrates the queens' community service efforts, which include advocating for health initiatives, family values, and trades education. This recognition has the potential to further inspire public engagement with community service and empower women, particularly in the context of the arts and public advocacy.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 865, introduced by Representative Bulso, serves to honor and commend the Mrs. Tennessee America Pageant as well as the individuals who have played significant roles within it, including director Bernadette McCann and reigning queens Amy Rottero, Kayla Dressen, and Claire Portilla. The resolution highlights the importance of this pageant and the values of excellence, family, and professionalism it represents. Established in 1938, the Mrs. America organization celebrates the contributions of married women in society, emphasizing their status as a vital resource.

Contention

Although HJR0865 appears to be largely celebratory and non-controversial, it does raise points related to gender representation in public spaces and the broader implications of beauty pageants. While supporters laud the promotion of confidence and civic engagement, critics may question the relevance and implications of beauty standards propagated by pageants. Nevertheless, the resolution seeks to recognize the uplifting contributions of these individuals to their communities and the state as a whole.