Miss Kansas Viral for Pageant Declaration
A moment from the 2024 Miss Kansas pageant is making the rounds on social media, which featured a powerful onstage revelation.
Alexis Smith, of Butler County, was officially crowned Miss Kansas on June 8, beating out 25 other contestants for the title, according to CBS affiliate KWCH-DT and Garden City Telegram.
Smith, 25, is just the third Black woman to win the title, per ABC affiliate KAKE.
During the interview portion of the contest, which Smith shared on social media, she firmly stated her goal as Miss Kansas would be to “eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships.” She then made a stunning declaration: “Some of you out in this audience saw me very emotional, because my abuser is here today.”
“But that's not going to stop me from being on this Miss Kansas stage and representing as the next Miss Kansas," she continued. "I and my community deserve healthy relationships. We deserve a domestic [violence]-free life.”
On July 16, a clip of the moment got shared on Smith's official X account, which then went viral.
Alongside the clip read the words, “Respect Reclaimed!” — a reference to her community service platform — as well as the message, “Our time is now for healthy relationships.” The post, which has over 53 thousand views, drew praise from countless social media users.
"YOU GO GIRL. YOU make me proud of my home state " wrote one commenter, while another replied, "I just got chills. She's amazing!"
Added a third, "What an amazing way to take your power back. I got goosebumps. I know there are other victims watching her now knowing they aren’t alone."
In a statemen, Smith says that: “As Miss Kansas, my platform is deeply rooted in empowering people to break free from cycles of domestic violence and unhealthy relationships. My answer on stage reflects my commitment to fostering a world where every individual feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive."
Source: people.com
