Alexis Smith was crowned Miss Kansas last month, but it’s her powerful onstage interview about domestic abuse that has recently captured widespread attention online.
On June 8, Smith won the Miss Kansas pageant. During the competition, she delivered a poignant revelation that her alleged abuser was in the audience. This moment was shared across various platforms by Smith and the Miss Kansas organization. The interview question asked how Smith would utilize her role as a brand ambassador if she won the title.
Smith articulated a clear vision to “eliminate” unhealthy and abusive relationships. She stated, “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 and from representing as the next Miss Kansas. Because I, and my community, deserve healthy relationships.”
Smith did not identify her abuser during the interview or in subsequent posts.
The impactful clip has been widely circulated on TikTok, X, and Instagram, both by Smith on her official pages and the Miss Kansas social media accounts. Social media users have expressed deep gratitude for Smith’s bravery in addressing such a personal and challenging subject.
One Instagram user commented, “You just stood up for all women. Thank you. I’m sorry for what you went through. And thank you for speaking up.” Another person on TikTok shared, “As a survivor, this moved me. Thank you for using your voice. You just gave strength to many you’ll never meet.”
Smith explained on Instagram that she spoke out to harness her platform and pursue her vision for a better world. “I took back my power—not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening,” she wrote. “This isn’t about shunning others; it’s about turning our pain into purpose and channeling it in a way that unifies and uplifts.”
In an interview with NBC affiliate KSN, Smith shared that her encounters with abusive relationships began at a young age. She revealed that she has experienced domestic abuse as a bystander, a victim, and a survivor. “My family, every single woman in my family, was impacted by domestic violence,” she said.
Now embracing an advocacy role, Smith has named her platform Miss Kansas “Respect Reclaimed.” She expressed her excitement to KSN about sharing her story with young men and women. “I am incredibly excited to be able to share my story and advocate for healthy relationships,” she said.
Smith’s courageous stance and dedication to advocating against domestic abuse are poised to inspire many, solidifying her reign as Miss Kansas as one marked by resilience and empowerment.