“My vision as the next Miss Kansas is to eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships,” Smith said on stage.“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,” she added.
The audience erupted in applause and cheers in support of Smith’s courage.
Smith, a full-time cardiothoracic ICU nurse, elaborated on her experience in a Facebook post after winning the title. “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 wrote. “Instead of falling into silence, I chose to live out my vision for a better world. I took back the power — not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening,” her post added.
Smith emphasised that her call-out was not about “shunning others” but about turning “pain into purpose and channelling it in a way that unifies and uplifts.”
Smith’s bravery garnered praise from hundreds on social media, including recognition from the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which lauded her “bravery and advocacy” as truly inspiring.
Source : Times of India