SATIIM expresses discontent over the use of Deer Dance Costume at the Miss Universe pageant

Following the Miss Universe pageant, the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) expressed their discontent with the Maya Deer Dance costume used by Miss Universe Belize, Halima Hoy. In an open statement, SATIIM explained their disappointment with Hoy’s performance and emphasized the significance of this traditional aspect of Maya culture. In response, Hoy stated that her performance aimed to highlight Belize’s culture and legacy while also raising public awareness about climate change.
The Maya Deer Dance is a significant traditional rite that was reflected in Halima Hoy’s national costume, which has sparked controversy within the Maya community. Critics, including the SATIIM, have labeled the outfit a “sacrilegious misuse” of sacred heritage. SATIIM’s open letter emphasizes that the community always performs the Deer Dance, and it carries profound spiritual meaning. They assert that it is not merely a performance but a ritual essential to Maya identity. The organization argues that wearing such a costume in a beauty competition undermines the cultural significance of the garment and disrespects the values it embodies.
Hoy’s costume has several significant issues that SATIIM highlights. They argue that the Deer Dance loses its collective spirit when performed theatrically or independently. The group is concerned that the costume design, which includes bustiers and other revealing components, contradicts the conservative beliefs of many Maya women regarding public display and modesty. Additionally, they worry that the political statements incorporated into the costume detract from its sacredness, asserting that cultural elements should not be appropriated for entertainment purposes. “The Mopan and Q’eqchi Maya words unok/nok’ refer to ceremonial clothes that are spiritually imbued with the sacred as a prayer. These are not trendy, decorative costumes. Deer Dance unok/nok’ (masks and clothes) become alive in an elaborate 13-cycle sequence that requires initiation of fasting, prayers and offerings. In 2021, when the Deer Dance was part of the Installation ceremony of Belize’s first Maya Governor General, it began and ended in a village. Only one part of a multi-day ritual was seen at the installation. Afterward, it was fully danced as a complete ceremony by initiated dancers. This sacred, ritualized clothing should never be a vehicle for something else, however well-intentioned. In this case, “the Deer Dance was desecrated at a beauty pageant”, said SATIIM in the open letter.
Halima Hoy defended her costume choice in response to criticism, stating that her design was meant to represent Belize’s rich cultural heritage while raising awareness about climate change. She clarified that her portrayal was intended to address urgent global issues while respecting Belize’s traditions and stories. Hoy mentioned that Belizeans voted on the design months before the pageant, which ultimately was selected. She expressed her pride in representing her country internationally and reiterated her commitment to promoting Belize’s cultural legacy.
The discussion between Hoy and SATIIM highlights broader conflicts surrounding cultural appropriation and representation in contemporary settings. While Hoy sought to highlight Belizean culture, SATIIM argues that sacred traditions must be respected and preserved. This situation underscores the challenges of representing indigenous cultures in international forums such as beauty pageants, where objectives may clash with social norms and historical significance.
The controversy surrounding Miss Universe Belize’s national costume has sparked discussions about honoring cultural heritage while engaging with contemporary media. The outcome of these discussions could influence the portrayal of indigenous cultures in similar contexts in the future.