Written by Joshua Williams.
In a surprising turn of events, Sara Milliken, a plus-sized model, has been crowned Miss Alabama. This announcement has sparked a wave of both criticism and support online. Critics argue that this decision by the judges is a product of “woke culture” and that Milliken’s victory reinforces negative stereotypes about Alabama.
Sara Milliken, a 23-year-old resident of Atmore, clinched the Miss Alabama title on her third attempt over Memorial Day weekend. Her primary goal was simply to make it to the top 10 after failing to do so in her previous two tries. “Just making it to top 10 was my goal, ya know, I could leave the weekend saying I was better than I was the year before, and it’s all about bettering yourself for me,” Milliken told WKRG.
The debate surrounding her win highlights the ongoing cultural clash over beauty standards and inclusivity. While some celebrate Milliken’s achievement as a step towards more inclusive beauty standards, others see it as a departure from traditional ideals.
Biological Male Wins Miss Maryland USA
The controversy didn’t stop in Alabama. On June 1, the Miss Maryland USA pageant judges crowned Bailey Anne Kennedy, a biological male, as the winner. Kennedy’s win has caused a stir, given the presence of many beautiful and intelligent female contestants. Kennedy, a 31-year-old military husband, former NCAA D1 Dance Team Captain, and NFL Cheerleader Trainee, is the first transgender person to win this title, and also the oldest.
In an interview with DC News Now’s Cory James, Kennedy expressed pride in his win, describing it as a “whirlwind” experience. He stated, “I knew it was bigger than me. I knew that it was going to mean a lot for all the LGBTQ kids out there who might feel like they don’t belong in a box – like me growing up.”
Kennedy hopes that his victory will inspire acceptance and understanding for the LGBTQ community. He aims to contribute positively to society and support initiatives like the USO program. “I hope I can be a positive contribution to society in making a difference,” he added.
Reactions to the Pageant Results
While Milliken and Kennedy enjoy the accolades of their wins, it’s worth considering the impact on their fellow competitors. The traditional beauty pageant landscape is undergoing significant changes, reflecting broader societal shifts towards inclusivity and diversity.
These victories have reignited debates over the definition of beauty and the role of gender in such competitions. The supporters of Milliken and Kennedy argue that these wins are a necessary step towards a more inclusive society. Critics, however, see them as a departure from long-standing norms and values.
The reactions from the public and the competitors themselves underscore the complexity of navigating these evolving standards. The path forward for beauty pageants, and the broader cultural landscape, will undoubtedly be shaped by these conversations and the changing attitudes they reflect.
Our Take
The decisions to crown a plus-sized model and a transgender individual in prominent beauty pageants mark a significant shift in cultural and societal norms. These wins are seen by some as a triumph for inclusivity and representation. However, they also raise questions about the criteria and standards that define beauty competitions. It is crucial to find a balance that respects both traditional values and the evolving understanding of diversity. These changes, while potentially positive, must be approached thoughtfully to avoid alienating any group and to ensure a fair and respectful competition.
