Identity Debate Erupts as Ukrainian-Born Model Clinches Miss Japan Title
Carolina Shiino, a Ukrainian-born model, recently secured the Miss Japan title, triggering a heated online controversy about the fairness of her win. Although Shiino has lived in Japan for most of her life and is a Japanese citizen, netizens argue that Japan-born models were unfairly overlooked.
Identity Struggles and Racial Barriers
Shiino, 26, faced criticism for not being born in Japan, despite her deep connection to the country. In her acceptance speech, she addressed the racial barriers she has encountered, stating that being accepted as Japanese has been a constant challenge. The indifference of the Japanese towards individuals who look different has been a lifelong struggle for Shiino.
Historical Context and Previous Controversies
This isn’t the first time the Miss Japan pageant has faced controversy regarding the nationality and identity of the winner. In 2015, a bi-racial (Black and Asian) model, Ariana Miyamoto, won the title, followed by Bengali-Japanese model Priyanka Yoshikawa in 2016. Both faced derogatory remarks and controversy, highlighting the ongoing challenges for diverse candidates.
Outcry on Social Media
Shiino’s win, almost a decade later, has reignited the debate. Critics argue that her non-Japanese heritage sends the wrong message, with one Twitter user expressing concern that an “European-looking person” is crowned the most beautiful Japanese. Another user questioned the essence of “Miss Japan,” stating that Shiino is “100% pure Ukrainian.”
Speculations and Organizers’ Response
Some netizens even speculated about political motives behind Shiino’s victory, suggesting that if she were born Russian, she wouldn’t have won. However, the Miss Nippon Association dismissed these claims. Ai Wada, the organizer of the Miss Japan Grand Prix pageant, affirmed that Shiino was chosen as the winner with “full confidence.” Wada emphasized Shiino’s linguistic and cultural fluency, stating, “She is more Japanese than we are.”
Shiino’s Response and Affirmation of Japanese Identity
Shiino, who declared her Japanese citizenship on Instagram, defended her win, expressing gratitude for being recognized as Japanese in the competition. Despite not fitting the traditional Japanese appearance, she asserted, “My mind has become Japanese because I grew up here.”
Thus, Carolina Shiino’s victory as Miss Japan has stirred controversy, reigniting discussions about identity, nationality, and acceptance in the pageant world.
The ongoing debate reflects the challenges faced by individuals who, despite their deep connection to a country, may not conform to traditional perceptions of national identity.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The shethepeople
