Miss Kansas has been praised for speaking out about domestic violence during a speech on stage.
Alexis Smith spoke out against her own abuser while on stage just before being crowned Miss Kansas last month and the resurfaced clip has become a hot talking point online.
In the video, Smith takes center stage to answer the question: "What will be your vision as the next brand ambassador for the Miss Kansas organization?"
Her answer shocked the masses.
"My vision as the next Miss Kansas is to eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships," she started.
"Matter of fact, some of you out in this audience saw me very emotional, because my abuser is here today," the beauty queen continued. "But that's not going to stop me from being on this Miss Kansas and from representing as the next Miss Kansas.
"Because I, and my community, deserve healthy relationships," she added.
Have a look at the moment below:
Smith did not identify her abuser in her answer or in her follow-up posts, but the viral video has gained a lot of traction across multiple social media platforms, with many commending the star for bravely speaking out.
"The courage it took! You are and will be an inspiration to many people! Bravo for standing up for yourself and others!" wrote one user on X.
"This made me so proud, gave me chills & brought happy tears. How much courage this took young lady! I’m so proud of you!" another added.
A third also chimed into the conversation, writing: "Love this for you! I remember my moment well and It's an amazing feeling when you finally free yourself from them in every way. Thank you for showing women suffering they can get out!"
And another said: "Thank you for no longer being afraid and showing other young girls how good bravery looks on us abused woman!"
After her win, Smith took to Instagram to elaborate on her answer, stating that she did not wish to "shun" others, and instead "reclaim [her] peace."
"On the night of Miss Kansas, my journey took an unexpected turn when someone I have been healing from tried to disrupt my peace," she wrote in a post. "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 continued: "This isn’t about shunning others; it’s about turning our pain into purpose and channeling it in a way that unifies and uplifts. I’m ready to use my story, tools, and resources to end unhealthy relationships in all forms. My voice and advocacy will empower everyone to reclaim their own power in their own unique way.
"I might be small in stature, but I stand tall in strength, purpose, and power with hopes of inspiring others to do the same," she added.
Speaking to KSN after her win, she also explained that she's been a victim of domestic abuse as well as a witness to it.
"My family, every single woman in my family, was impacted by domestic violence,” she told the outlet.
She also told the station that she was "incredibly excited" to be able to share her story with young men and women in the hopes that it will inspire people who are in similar situations to speak out and become survivors.
What an amazing way to use one's platform!
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