Three former beauty pageant contestants, now part of the feminist group “Osez le Feminisme,” are suing Miss France and production company Endemol for alleged appearance-based discrimination.

The trio, unsuccessful in the pageant, joined the feminist organization to address their concerns. The lawsuit contends that Miss France violates labor laws by imposing criteria like height and marital status. Violaine De Filippis-Abate, the group’s lawyer, asserts, “The beauty pageant discriminates on morals, age, family status, and physical appearance.”

The legal success hinges on whether the pageant is deemed employment. The contestants don’t sign contracts, but a 2013 judgment supports mistreatment claims. Despite assertions of moving past sexism, Miss France remains under scrutiny. Alyssa Ahrabare, Dare to be Feminist’s leader, states, “We have decided to use the law to advance the cause of women.” Miss France insists it promotes women’s rights, emphasizing a shift from past practices.