Miss Kansas goes viral for calling out her abuser who was at the competition
Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of sexual assault and/or violence.
A video of 2024 Miss Kansas Alexis Smith is going viral which sees her calling out her abuser during the question and answer portion of the Miss America pageant.
During the competition, Alexis was asked about her future goals as the next Miss Kansas. The 25-year-old said that her vision "is to eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships" before publically calling out her abuser.
“Matter of fact, 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 from representing as the next Miss Kansas. Because I, and my community, deserve healthy relationships. We deserve a domestic [violence] free life,” she said, drawing cheers and applause from the audience.
In a statement on Facebook, the beauty queen further talked about the issue, sharing that on the night of the Miss Kansas pageant, "someone I have been healing from tried to disrupt my peace."
"On the night of Miss Kansas, my journey took an unexpected turn when someone I have been healing from tried to disrupt my peace," she recalled.
"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."
Miss Kansas continued that her story is about "turning our pain into purpose."
"I'm ready to use my story, tools, and resources to end unhealthy relationships in all forms. My voice and advocacy will empower everyone to reclaim their own power in their own unique way," she continued.
"I might be small in stature, but I stand tall in strength, purpose, and power with hopes of inspiring others to do the same," she concluded.
The comments section overflowed with messages of support from fans.
One Facebook user said that she herself was a victim of domestic violence and applauded the beauty queen for speaking out. "I watched this 10 times!! I’m still getting bullied by his parents even with a no-contact order. I plan on helping women like us as well," she said.
"Women are doneeeee staying silent about men’s atrocities and I’m so glad to be on the planet for this turning of the tide. THANK YOU SO MUCH for being brave enough to call him out. You reclaimed your power and you made so many of us feel ready to too," another one wrote.
"We got to see you ACTIVELY showcasing your platform LIVE IN PERSON! My upmost respect to you Miss Alexis. This is beyond any crown, I cannot wait to watch your journey. As someone who grew up around domestic violence, I have chills watching you. You will always have a supporter in me. [Y[ou absolutely ate that," said one more Facebook user.
Alexis claimed the Miss Kansas crown on June 8. She'll represent the Sunflower State at the upcoming Miss America in January 2025.