The pageant's long history of excluding women of color dates from its beginnings. At some point in the 1930s, it was formalized in the notorious rule number seven of the Miss America rule book.

The 2023 Miss America pageant is being held at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Lady Gaga Attends 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards in Waist-Cinching LBD Before Slipping into Fiery Red Gown ...