WICHITA, KANSAS — In a bold and courageous move, the newly crowned Miss Kansas, Alexis Smith, used her platform during the recent pageant to call out her alleged abuser, who was present in the audience. Smith, a full-time cardiothoracic ICU nurse from Butler County, delivered a powerful message about eliminating unhealthy and abusive relationships, leaving a lasting impact on the audience and viewers across the state and beyond.
During the Q&A round of the pageant, Smith addressed her abuser directly, stating, “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.”
Smith’s courageous act sent a strong message of resilience and empowerment, and her refusal to be silenced in the face of her abuser garnered widespread praise and support. Netizens took to social media to applaud her bravery, with many praising her inspiring message and the impact it will have on other survivors.
One user wrote, “The courage it took! You are and will be an inspiration to many people! Bravo for standing up for yourself and others!” Another user shared, “Love this for you! I remember my moment well, and it’s an amazing feeling when you finally free yourself from them. Thank you for showing women suffering they can get out!”
Smith, who became the third Black woman to win the Miss Kansas title, did not reveal the name of her abuser. However, her decision to speak out during the pageant shines a much-needed light on the issue of domestic violence and unhealthy relationships.
As the newly crowned Miss Kansas, Smith will now advance to represent her state at the Miss America competition in January 2025. There is no doubt that her advocacy for healthy relationships and domestic violence awareness will continue to be a central part of her platform, inspiring and giving hope to survivors everywhere.
Smith’s courageous act serves as a reminder that speaking out against abuse can be a powerful step towards healing and empowering not just oneself but also an entire community.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or abuse, there are resources available to help. You can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website at thehotline.org.
