Alexis Smith was crowned Miss Kansas last month, but it’s her powerful onstage interview about domestic abuse that has recently captured widespread attention online.
Smith won the Miss Kansas pageant on June 8. During the on-stage interview portion, she revealed a deeply personal and emotional experience. When asked how she would use her role as brand ambassador if she won, Smith shared her vision to "eliminate" unhealthy and abusive relationships.
Miss Kansas Confronts Past Abuse In Powerful Speech
"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 Miss Kansas and representing Kansas as the next Miss Kansas. My community and I deserve healthy relationships,” Smith bravely stated.
Smith did not name her abuser in her response or any subsequent posts. The powerful moment has been widely shared on platforms like TikTok, X, and Instagram by both Smith and the Miss Kansas organisation. Many social media users expressed their gratitude and admiration for Smith's courage to speak out on such a sensitive topic.
"You just stood up for all women. Thank you. I’m sorry for what you went through. And thank you for speaking up,” one person commented on Instagram. Smith shared on Instagram that she spoke out to use her platform for positive change and to live out her vision for a better world.
"I took back my power—not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening. This isn’t about shunning others; it’s about turning our pain into purpose and channelling it in a way that unifies and uplifts."
In an interview with NBC affiliate KSN, Smith revealed that her experiences with abusive relationships began at a young age. "My family, every single woman in my family, was impacted by domestic violence," she said. Smith has been a bystander, a victim, and a survivor of domestic abuse.
Now, as Miss Kansas, Smith is stepping into an advocacy role with her platform, "Respect Reclaimed." She expressed her excitement about sharing her story and spreading awareness among young men and women.
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