Miss Kansas, Alexis Smith, recently became an inspiration for many domestic violence survivors after bravely calling out her abuser during the final interview at the Miss Kansas pageant. On June 8, 2024, before being crowned the new Miss Kansas, Alexis was asked to speak about her Reclaimed Respect initiative, which focuses on eliminating unhealthy and abusive relationships.
With 26 participants in the competition, Alexis Smith’s moment on stage became a significant and emotional turning point. As she discussed her initiative, she acknowledged that her abuser was present in the audience that night. In a powerful statement, she said, “My vision as the next Miss Kansas is to eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships.
Matter of fact, 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. We deserve a domestic [violence] free life.”
Her courage in that moment sent a strong message not only to those in the room but also to viewers online, with the video later shared on TikTok. In the video, Alexis explained her actions, writing, “Respect Reclaimed is about reclaiming your power and standing firmly in it.
On the night of Miss Kansas, my journey took an unexpected turn when someone I have been healing from tried to disrupt my peace. Instead of falling into silence, I chose to live out my vision for a better world. I took back my power—not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening.”
She emphasized that her actions were not meant to shame anyone but to turn her pain into purpose. “It’s about turning our pain into purpose and channeling it in a way that unifies and uplifts,” she continued. Alexis shared her hope to inspire others by using her voice to empower people to reclaim their own power in their own way.
The overwhelming response from survivors of domestic violence has been incredibly supportive. Many applauded Alexis for her bravery, and her words resonated deeply with those who have experienced similar struggles. One comment read, “As a victim of domestic violence I applaud you for speaking out!! I watched this 10 times!! I’m still getting bullied by his parents even with a no contact order.
I plan on helping women like us as well.” Another survivor expressed their admiration, saying, “WHAT A WOMAN. This is absolutely incredible. From one survivor to another, I am SO SO proud of you for reclaiming this moment for yourself. You will do amazing things.”
Alexis’s powerful statement didn’t just end there. She encouraged others to be strong and stand tall, regardless of their struggles. “I might be small in stature, but I stand tall in strength, purpose, and power with hopes of inspiring others to do the same.” This message resonated deeply with individuals who had been through their own battles, with one person writing, “Incredibly brave of you. You just made a statement for all women. I appreciate you so much.”
Many who had witnessed Alexis’s courage on stage and followed her journey offered their support and shared their own personal stories. “We got to see you ACTIVELY showcasing your platform LIVE IN PERSON! My upmost respect to you Miss Alexis. This is beyond any crown, I cannot wait to watch your journey. As someone who grew up around domestic violence, I have chills watching you. You will always have a supporter in me.”
Alexis Smith has used her personal experience to become a beacon of hope for others. She is not only an advocate for survivors of domestic violence but also works full-time as a cardiothoracic ICU nurse and uses her 19 years of experience as a ventriloquist to teach children about healthy relationships. Through her Reclaimed Respect initiative, she uses puppets to educate kids about the importance of respecting one another and forming healthy, non-abusive relationships.
Her journey is proof that strength, courage, and the willingness to speak out can make a significant impact. Alexis has shown that she is not just a beauty queen, but a warrior for change who is willing to stand up for what is right and inspire others to do the same.
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