«Stop Asian Hate“. It is the writing that stands out on the back of the dress Bernadette Belle Ong during the National Costume Show, the parade with the national dress in which the participants of Miss Universe 2020 show off looks inspired by the colors and flags of the country of origin. But that of the candidate of Singapore it’s not just a dress, it’s one statement it’s a protest.
“Stop the hatred of Asians.” The writing in block letters covers almost the entire surface of the white and red cape with the rouches that sways behind the 26-year-old actress and model of Filipino origin, and refers to the protests against the recent attacks on Asians and Asian Americans occurred in the United States, following the coronavirus pandemic.
“It’s surreal. I’ve been on TV before, but this is different. It’s about me, not a character I’m trying to play for work. I have chosen to use this platform as I want, deciding what tone and message to convey and I am proud to make Singapore shine with every step I take! », Bernadette writes in the caption that accompanies the video of the show on social media. A very clear message also appreciated by the public who let themselves go with shouts and applause as soon as the actress and model turned with a theatrical touch, revealing the writing. But it was also the look that certainly deserved the applause: a fire red bodysuit with sequins rather stalked and of the boots that reach up to above the knee, two super bright dangle earrings to the lobes.
In this case the credit is all of Arwin Meriales, a 21-year-old Filipino designer who created it in just two days with Paulo Pilapil Espinosa, author of the hand-painted lettering. «When Bernadette asked me to make her national dress – Meriales writes on Instagram – I have to be honest, I thought it wouldn’t work. I only had two days to do it. Considering I’m still studying, I thought it wasn’t going to work, so I was reluctant to accept it. What made me say yes? The fact that this is not just a dress. It is a declaration and a protest to stop the hatred of Asians. Who would not want to be part of such a cause ». And so more and more often the theaters, the catwalks and the stadiums are transformed from a place of entertainment to a stage of protests and (also) political messages.
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