Trans beauty queen to make history in Puerto Rico Miss Universe contest
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Daniela Arroyo González has made history as the first trans woman to compete in Puerto Rico’s Miss Universe contest. The announcement was made last week, and if González wins, she will go on to represent her country in the global Miss Universe pageant.
González, a model and LGBTQ+ activist, expressed her excitement and gratitude in a video posted to her Instagram. She thanked her followers and fans for their support and stated, “Let’s make history together.” The emotion and pride she feels in this moment are overwhelming, and she is determined to create positive changes for the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to her modeling career, González is the co-founder of the Puerto Rico Trans Youth Coalition, a support group for young trans people in the country. She has also been involved in a lawsuit against the Puerto Rican government, advocating for the rights of trans individuals to change their gender on legal documents.
The Miss Universe competition has allowed trans contestants since 2012, and in 2018, Ángela Maria Ponce Camacho became the first transgender contestant to compete in the global pageant as Miss Universe Spain. This inclusivity has been a significant step forward for the pageant industry, promoting diversity and representation.
However, it was only recently that the Miss Universe business itself came under new ownership. Thai trans businesswoman Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip purchased the franchise in 2022 for $20 million, becoming the first woman to own it. Jakrajutatip is the CEO of Thai media group JKN and the founder of the Life Inspired For Transsexual Foundation. With her ownership, she aims to celebrate the power of feminism and give women a leading role in the organization.
For many years, Miss Universe was solely run by men until this change in ownership. Jakrajutatip believes it is time for women to take the lead and wants to create a less polarized society where differences are appreciated and embraced as something positive that unites rather than divides.
González’s participation in the Miss Universe contest is not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community. By breaking barriers and challenging traditional beauty standards, she is paving the way for future generations of trans individuals to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
The news of González’s inclusion in the competition has been met with widespread support and celebration. It is a testament to the progress being made in terms of inclusivity and acceptance. The Miss Universe contest, once exclusive to cisgender women, now embraces diversity and recognizes the beauty and talent of individuals from all walks of life.
As we continue to move towards a more inclusive society, it is essential to recognize and celebrate achievements like González’s. Representation matters, and her presence in the Miss Universe contest sends a powerful message of acceptance and equality.
González’s journey in the competition will undoubtedly inspire and empower countless individuals who may have felt marginalized or excluded. Her bravery and determination serve as a reminder that no dream is too big to chase, regardless of one’s gender identity.
As the Miss Universe contest approaches, all eyes will be on González as she competes for the crown. Win or lose, she has already made history and left an indelible mark on the pageant industry. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that progress is possible when we embrace diversity and strive for inclusivity.
Puerto Rico should be proud to have Daniela Arroyo González representing them in the Miss Universe contest. Her journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community, and she is sure to inspire many others to embrace their true selves and pursue their dreams without limitations.
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