By Katlyn Moncoda
The message of glamour from today’s media has become the mainstream definition of beauty.
Recently, some are trying to go against the standard with campaigns for natural beauty sprouting across America.
Six girls at Colleyville (Texas) Heritage High School recently founded a campaign called “Redefining Beauty.” Every Tuesday, the girls do not wear makeup to school as a symbol that they do not need it to feel beautiful.
In a live interview for the “Today” show, the girls expressed their surprise in having 200 girls get involved so far. Their goal is to encourage girls to be comfortable with their true identity.
Rachel Schutte, a student at Colleyville, told the “Today” show it was difficult to go against what everyone expects.
“High school is a fashion show and the hallways are the runway,” Schutte said.
Natalie Lovett, junior nursing major, said she recently had to experience a week without makeup because she left it at her home. Since she normally wears makeup on a daily basis, Lovett said she did not feel right without it.
“It’s our choice what we wear, but we let others make the choice for us,” Lovett said.
Heather Holland, junior psychology major, has a different outlook on makeup. She said if girls would never start wearing makeup, then they would not have to get used to it. Holland said she does not have any desire to wear makeup.
“What’s the point in going through all that trouble if it doesn’t make a difference?” Holland said.
With campaigns like “Redefining Beauty” on the rise, Ema VanCleave, residence director of female quads, said she hopes to instill confidence in women. She has spoken with many female students about struggles with appearance.
“The majority of my conversations stem from women who are overwhelmed in general (and) in several instances where women are feeling insecure,” VanCleave said.
Elizabeth Blair, intern counselor for Union and social work graduate student, said she also believes females need to get rid of negative thoughts and start putting things into perspective.
“We were created in Christ’s image,” Blair said. “He molded me to be the way I am. Who am I to say that the way I look is not special? There’s no one else on this entire planet that looks like me.”
Blair submitted a proposal to Union for funding an event called “Confidence U.” Tamarin Huelin, part-time counselor, has been working with Blair, along with a team of students and staff, to make the event happen next semester. Huelin said the event will deal with body image and a Christ-centered understanding of beauty.
