Sara Milliken, a plus-sized woman, was crowned Miss Alabama in the National American Miss pageant, leading to criticism on social media for promoting “unhealthy lifestyles.” Despite cyberbullying and negative comments, Milliken responded with a message of resilience and positivity, emphasizing that she is more than her body. The outrage reflected a misunderstanding, as the NAM pageant values communication and confidence over physical attributes.
Differentiating between pageants like Miss USA, which focuses on physical appearance, and Miss America, which includes talent and personality categories but not a swimsuit contest, is important in understanding Milliken’s win. NAM emphasizes real-world skills and confidence-building, offering opportunities for girls to grow and become future leaders.
Milliken’s journey to the crown included competing in NAM pageants before and working hard every day to achieve her dream. Despite the backlash, she remained determined to represent her community and show that a plus-sized woman can be a titleholder.
While Miss Alabama USA 2024 was won by Diane Westhoven, Milliken’s win in the NAM pageant was a result of her dedication to personal growth and confidence. The controversy surrounding her victory highlighted the need to challenge societal norms about beauty and body image, while also recognizing the different standards and values upheld by various pageants in the U.S. Milliken’s story is a testament to perseverance and self-worth, encouraging others to embrace their uniqueness and chase their dreams.
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