MANILA, Philippines — Beauty queen and nurse Alexis Smith called out an alleged abuser who was present in the crowd en route to winning the 2024 Miss Kansas title last month.
Smith beat out 25 other delegates to become just the third Black woman ever to win Miss Kansas, backed by her platform to put an end to domestic violence and toxic relationships.
During the pageant’s question and answer portion, Smith was asked what her vision would be as the potential ambassador of the Miss Kansas organization, to which she began her answer talking about her mission to end unhealthy relationships.
“Matter of fact, some of you in the 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 from representing as the next Miss Kansas,” Smith continued.
Smith’s responses earned cheers and claps from the audience and the beauty queen finished her answer by pointing out everyone in her community deserves healthy relationships free from domestic abuse.
Respect Reclaimed!
Our time is now for healthy relationships.#MissAmerica #ThereSheIs #Pageants #RespectReclaimed #MissKansas pic.twitter.com/npejBb6CCs
— Alexis Smith, Miss Kansas (@MissAmericaKS) July 16, 2024
After winning the pageant, Smith shared on social media the evening took a turn when she saw the person she says abused her and “tried to disrupt her peace.”
“Instead of falling into silence, I chose to live out my vision for a better world. I took back my power — not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening,” the new Miss Kansas said, inspiring her Respect Reclaimed platform.
“This isn’t about shunning others. It’s about turning our pain into purposes and channeling it in a way that unifies and uplifts,” Smith added.
Smith will represent Kansas at the upcoming Miss America pageant in January where Colorado’s Madison Marsh will crown her successor.
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Victims of abuse can report cases to the Commission on Human Rights Citizens’ Help and Assistance Division through the following contact details:
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