Child beauty pageants normalize the idea of children as sexual objects by encouraging their contestants to wear revealing clothing or pose suggestively, making them look like dolls. Dressing children up to look like sexually mature adults encourages the belief that children can consent to sexual activity just because they look older than they are.

Child beauty pageants objectify children by teaching them that their physical appearance defines their self-worth. This belief can stick with them into adulthood, contributing to body image issues, depression, and even sexual violence.

We all have a responsibility to protect the children of our country. Banning child pageants can discourage the toxic culture that sexualizes young children. Let's work together to create a nation where children feel safe being children.

We, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Women and Gender Equality to ban child beauty pageants in Canada.