Miss America, one of the world’s most famous beauty pageants has officially welcomed its first openly gay contestant to the competition, ninety-five years after its establishment in 1921.
Competing for the Miss America crown, Erion O’Flaherty also known as Miss Missouri makes no secret of her sexuality expressing her excitement at being the first openly gay contestant.
“I knew going in that I had the opportunity to make history. Now I get to be more visible to the community and meet more people.”
Despite a number of openly gay women having competed at state level prior to O’Flaherty, The 23-year-old has already made history and will now go up against 51 other competitors from around the United States.
Chief operating officer of the Miss America Organisation, Josh Randle has welcomed the milestone explaining, “Through every major milestone of our nation’s evolution, Miss America has provided a voice for women from all walks of life, and, this year, we welcome our first openly gay contestant.”
“Miss America contestants continue to be the best and brightest in the country, and we proudly support each and every young woman who competes in our national program.”
Last Updated on Sep 9, 2016
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