I can’t tell you how thrilled I am about the brand new documentary, “Defining Beauty,” starring Ms. Wheelchair state holders, that documents their journey in the Ms. Wheelchair America program. The documentary’s purpose is to change perceptions, to challenge stereotypes, and to highlight a slice a life the world never sees, and is a purpose after my own heart. As a woman with a spinal cord injury who frequently writes about the issues of image and confidence regarding women with disabilities, this film is something I wished for, but never thought would happen.
Alexis Ostrander is the reason this film was made. As the director, the writer, and probably dozens of other titles not named, she was inspired to make this documentary-unlike-any-other, and I love her for it. While I have yet to personally see it, I know it highlights a couple friends of mine, Ms. Wheelchair California Alyson Roth and Ms. Wheelchair America Erika Bogan. Ms. Wheelchair Texas Michelle Colvard is also featured, as well as a few others. While the film isn’t yet available to watch anywhere online, you can watch the preview here.
The really cool news about this exciting documentary is that Alexis, whom I interviewed about this project well over a year ago, finally had her world premiere for the documentary last weekend at the Newport Beach Film Festival. It was in Los Angeles and the pictures of the event look amazing – big party, all the women from the film, celebs, sponsors. And can I say for a moment how fun it was to see so many beautiful women in wheelchairs on a red carpet strutting their stuff? Imagery like this is so powerful.
While the Ms. Wheelchair America program isn’t about beauty or poise, it does highlight beautiful women nonetheless – inside and out – who are advocates, amazingly strong, and have been too long unknown to the general public. Movies are one of the best ways to eliminate stereotypes, and this documentary is sure to change preconceived notions of our unique world, and will redefine beauty, with every screening.
Read Tiffiny’s Post “Why Pageants are Good for the Disability Community”
Join “Defining Beauty” on Facebook
Photo Courtesy of “Defining Beauty“
Are you excited about this documentary? Do you feel that pieces like this help change perceptions or challenge stereotypes?
As Ms. wheelchair Minnesota 2011, I was thrilled when I first heard about this documentary coming out. It is a perfect way to help eliminate stereotypes about people with disabilities. I look forward to seeing it and also taking my own journey into the pageant world when I go to nationals in August. Thanks for sharing and bringing light to it!