Ashley Graham thinks America needs to embrace "different types of beauty".
The stunning plus-size lingerie model will be a backstage host at the 2016 Miss USA competition on Sunday (05.06.16), and she thinks her presence at the event marks a major step forward for curvaceous women.
The 28-year-old star said: "The fact that they’ve asked me to come and speak backstage means that there is more feeling of diversity of beauty.
"I’m really excited about the fact that they’re so open to the inclusion of so many different types of beauty, because for so long [America] has been going one way – America has finally caught on."
The model, who has previously featured in Sports Illustrated, thinks curvy women ought to be embraced more by popular culture.
She told People: "I would like to see diversity of body shape, sizes, ethnicities and ages in every realm.
"I think by having me host backstage it’s opened up this door and this question of ‘well, why haven’t we had anybody? What is stopping us from having a very curvaceous woman come in and win Miss USA or even be a contestant?’"
Ashley said she can see that the public’s attitude towards bigger women is starting to change.
She explained: "I really do hope that the people at Miss USA are considering it and talking about it, but I think clearly they are by having me host."
Ashley also revealed she would relish the opportunity to participate in the Miss USA competition.
She added: "I’ve never been a pageant girl. I don’t think that [the contestants are] just walking up there in a pretty dress. So for me, I’m like, ‘oh my God, what would I have to do? What would I have to prepare?’"
Ashley Graham: America should embrace curvaceous women
