Key Takeaways

• Smith’s ethnicity plays a crucial role in her platform and advocacy world.
• Her success inspires young Black girls across Kansas and the nation, providing that they, too, can aspire to and achieve such prestigious titles.
• Her presence on the national stage will further amplify the voices of Black women and promote diversity in pageantry.

Alex Smith, the newly crowned Miss Kansas 2024, has made history as the third Black woman to hold the title in the pageant’s 82-year history.

This achievement highlights the importance of representation and diversity in beauty pageants and society at large.

Smith’s crowning comes at a time when discussions about race and ethnicity in America are more prevalent than ever.

As a Black woman, she brings a unique perspective to the role of Miss Kansas, representing not only her state but also her community.

The Wichita native competed as Miss Butler County before claiming the state title.

Her success marks a significant milestone for Black women in Kansas and showcases the progress made in inclusivity within the pageant world.

Smith’s ethnicity plays a crucial role in her platform and advocacy world.

As a Black woman who has experienced domestic abuse, she uses her position to address issues that disproportionately affect women of color.

Her community service initiative, “Respect Reclaimed: Advocating for Healthy Relationships,” aims to empower individuals from all backgrounds to recognize and escape abusive situations.

The significance of Smith’s ethnicity extends beyond her personal achievements.

Her success inspires young Black girls across Kansas and the nation, providing that they, too, can aspire to and achieve such prestigious titles.

Smith’s journey to Miss Kansas also highlights the intersectionality of her experiences.

As a Black woman in healthcare, working as a cardiothoracic ICU nurse, she represents a demographic often underrepresented in both the medical field and beauty pageants.

As she prepares to compete in the Miss America pageant in January, Smith carries with her the hopes and dreams of many.

Her presence on the national stage will further amplify the voices of Black women and promote diversity in pageantry.

All in all, Alexis Smith’s ethnicity is not just a footnote in her story but an integral part of her identity and mission as Miss Kansas.

Through her platform, she continues to break barriers and promote greater inclusivity in pageants and beyond.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Alex Smith’s mother, Andrea Wheeler, was born on June 30 in Wichita, Kansas.
• Her great-grandfather, Bob Melton, served in the Air Force.
• Her abusive relationship began when she was only 14.