Bailey Anne Kennedy, a 31-year-old Cambodian-American trans-woman, was crowned Miss Maryland USA. As the first transgender woman to hold this title,
Kennedy, wife of a US Marine, will now compete at Miss USA, which will be held in Los Angeles on Aug. 4.
In her interview with DC News Now, Kennedy expressed feeling supported by the “sisterhood” of women competing alongside her in the pageant.
This sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding among the contestants highlighted the inclusive and empowering nature of the event, where differences were celebrated rather than shunned.
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Kennedy’s ability to find acceptance and solidarity within the pageant community further underscored the transformative potential of her win.
“I felt confident in my own skin at 31, which is past the old age limit, which is 28 — as you know Miss Universe Organization lift the restriction now — so every woman of all ages can compete,” Anne told DC News Now.
Anne told the outlet that she “hopes that it will open up some doors, open up some hearts for people to see that there are many aspects of LGBT community out there and I hope I can be a positive contribution to society in making a difference like the USO program like I’m working with.”
In 2021, Kataluna Enriquez became the first transgender woman crowned Miss Nevada, while in 2018, Angela Ponce represented Spain in the Miss Universe pageant. These pioneering individuals have paved the way for greater acceptance and inclusion within the industry.
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The Pride Center Maryland, which runs Pride Month events in Baltimore, has hailed Kennedy’s win as a “landmark moment for the LGBTQ community.” Tramour Wilson, the senior director of advocacy and community engagement for the organization, expressed hope that Kennedy’s victory will encourage more transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals to participate in pageants, instilling confidence and inspiring them to break down stereotypes and barriers, according to the Baltimore Banner.
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