The Privilege of Being A Sister by Hannah Utic

Since coming home to beautiful Alaska, everyone of course wants to know “what was Miss America like?!” My knee jerk response is “it was the most chaotic two weeks of my life,” because it feels impossible to completely describe the surreal, incredible, wild, tiring, once in a lifetime experience that it was. But as I try to play back every aspect of the experience in my own head, there is one class of moments that I come back to every time as the most special ~ the sisterhood. While I think it goes without saying that the bond with the fifty other sisters in our Miss America class is one of the absolute most precious things I took away from this experience and I made friends for life, what I actually am talking about is the Miss Alaska sisterhood. 

More times than not, Miss America has been held somewhere on the east coast, which obviously means quite the travel journey for Alaskans. Because of this, historically, very few former Miss Alaskas have been able to go back and cheer on their newest addition to the sisterhood. Knowing this, I am not sure I have ever felt more special than when FIVE of my favorite Miss Alaska sisters told me they were coming to Florida to cheer me on. Miss Alaskas 1986, 1990, 1991, 1993, 2021, as well as a forever Miss Anchorage and our Miss Anchorage’s Teen all sacrificed greatly to be there and I could not be more grateful. The bond shared within the sisterhood is something that can't really be explained, so to have my biggest fans physically there was so incredibly special. 

So when I think back, my favorite memories are the ones the world didn't get to see: finally having a free couple hours and getting to have brunch with them; getting up extra early each day after four hours of sleep to get Starbucks, a good convo and a morning hug from one of my best friends in the world, Miss Alaska 1991, who was experiencing Miss America again exactly thirty years later, but this time with me; them dragging all my stuff (and me) back to my room each night after visitation, and even having to take my heels off because I was too exhausted to even move; the morning after debrief…. These are the moments that may seem insignificant to an observer but are truly what carried me through the week. It was the honor of a lifetime to get to represent Alaska on the Miss America stage, but it is the unbelievable privilege of being in the Miss Alaska sisterhood forever that I will always cherish the most. 

-Hannah Utic, Miss Alaska 2023

What Does it Feel Like to Stand on the Miss America Stage? by Mallory Hudson

It feels like… 

…all the roads I have ever traveled led to this stage, and I feel the years of hard work coming to fruition. Every late night, sacrifice, and ounce of preparation contributed to this very moment. Of course, the top five finish brought me immense joy, but I am most thankful for the personal growth and resiliency I developed throughout my Miss America journey, regardless of any outcome. 

Rob Metzger

It feels like… 

…an honor to stand with 50 of the most kind, intelligent, and ambitious women in the country. In preparation for Miss America, I made a cognizant effort to lean into the qualities and achievements I brought to the table while celebrating the qualities and achievements the other title holders brought to the table as well. The Miss America Class of 2024 is a true sisterhood composed of independent, inspiring, and charismatic women. I have never felt more empowered or more proud to be a woman than I did on the Miss America stage. 

It feels like… 

…an opportunity to advocate for the 1 billion people living in our world with some form of disability. As William Shakespere said, “All the world's a stage, and ALL the men and women merely players…” My service initiative, Inclusive Stages, advocates for individuals with special learning needs and disabilities through theatrical and artistic opportunities. Advocating for Inclusive Stages and sharing my mission on a national platform is something I will always cherish. Everyone can shine if they are simply given the opportunity to do so. 

It feels like… 

Hudson M Photography

…a great responsibility. Kentuckians support Kentuckians, so I knew I was carrying the hopes and expectations of the people of the Commonwealth to the Miss America Stage. Ultimately, my first priority was to represent my home state of 22 years with grace, dignity, and an unbridled spirit, and I threw my heart and soul into meeting that goal. It was a personal commitment to represent the values and character of the state that has shaped me into the woman I am today. 

It feels like…

…the beginning and continuation of a legacy. Recognizing the footsteps of those who had preceded me, women who had undeniably shaped Miss America’s esteemed tradition, I was acutely aware of the weight of their influence. However, I embraced the idea of creating my own path. I ultimately hope to be remembered as a Miss Kentucky who built intentional connections, advocated for inclusion, led with a servant's heart, and empowered through education 

What does it feel like to stand on the Miss America stage? It’s a feeling that is difficult to label but impossible to forget. I am incredibly thankful I will forever be connected to an opportunity much larger than myself. Thank you, Miss America! 

-Mallory Hudson, Miss Kentucky 2023

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month by Arianna Shanks-Hill

February is Teen Dating Violence awareness month. Knowing this, and also knowing that teens are disproportionately affected by dating violence while also being the least advocated for age group, I’ve decided to address a different, more specific audience than usual: parents. I’ve made several posts on what signs of dating violence parents can look out for in their teengers, but I want to take it a step further and focus on the preventative; the way that we as a society discuss domestic violence and address our children has to change in order to build a better future. So, what can we teach our younger children that will equip them with the proper tools to be respectful and respected in their future relationships? 

Now, for a disclaimer: I am not a parent, and I am in no way trying to critique people’s parenting skills. This is simply a curated list of observations and examples from my experiences and research I have done, solely for those parents that are searching for tangible ways to prevent victimization or perpetration of abuse. 

1. Modeling healthy relationships with communication. 

Children who witness domestic violence in adolescence are more likely to perpetuate the cycle in the future. Do your best to teach them what healthy relationships look like, and discuss unhealthy interactions openly. You can also model these positive interactions by mitigating disagreements between siblings or peers; teach your children how to express themselves in a respectful way. 

2. Speak to them kindly, even when they make mistakes or get in trouble. You are your child’s first example of love. Name calling or belittling your child out of anger can either a). Teach them to treat others this way when they are angry, or b). Believe that it is okay for others to treat them poorly when they make mistakes. 

3. Teach them about consent. 

This one sometimes sounds strange to parents, but it is very important. Discussing consent with children looks different than it does with teenagers or young adults. With children, it looks like explaining that if someone says they don't want a hug, then we have to keep our hands to ourselves. It can also look like not forcing them to hug & kiss relatives, because we get to choose what to do with our bodies. 

4. Help your children understand and express their emotions in a positive way. Some children are shamed or reprimanded for expressing “negative” emotions, like anger, frustration, disappointment, and sadness. If you can teach your child about their emotions and demonstrate positive, acceptable displays of emotion, they will carry those skills for the rest of their lives. Adults who express anger by throwing things and hitting were previously children with unregulated emotions and no safe space to express them. 

5. Avoid excusing harmful behaviors. 

It's easy to say things like “Boys will be boys” or “That's just how kids play!”. A common one that I was told growing up, that actually turned out to be harmful, was “He probably did that because he likes you”, with ‘that’ being hair pulling, pushing, or other behaviors from children that make others uncomfortable being dismissed as cute or funny. By allowing these behaviors and making excuses for them, you are teaching your children that it's okay for someone to hurt them under the guise of affection or love. 

6. Teach your children to stand up for themselves. 

Of course parents want to raise polite, agreeable children; however, it can be extremely dangerous to teach your kids that they must always be ‘nice’ and never make a fuss. Validating

your child’s feelings and encouraging them to speak up when they feel uncomfortable, hurt, or disrespected will set them up for success later in life because they will know that they do not have to tolerate someone being mean or harming them. You can go multiple ways with this type of lesson, whether you teach them polite ways to diffuse a situation, or you teach them to be more brash and forward. Even something as simple as ‘’That hurt my feelings and I didn't like it’’ can work wonders. The most important thing is teaching your child to be secure enough in themselves and their relationship with you to say something when they feel unsafe or disrespected. 

These tips are most effective at the earliest age you feel comfortable discussing them with your child, so that you can consistently build these skills and help regulate your child as they grow and start developing friendships and relationships. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent abuse, teaching your child to identify and distinguish healthy, safe, acceptable behaviors can help them be better prepared to break patterns and avoid unhealthy relationships before they become toxic and dangerous. Establishing communication with your child is the most essential tip, so that your child feels comfortable discussing things with you, including topics that can feel uncomfortable, like abuse and harmful behaviors they could be experiencing. However, the most important tip I can give parents and families everywhere is to love your children unconditionally, and always be their safe space; you can't always prevent bad things from happening to the people you love but you can support them through it.

"To Those Still Trapped" by Arianna Shanks-Hill

I have once again heard of more girls targeted by an abuser. More girls were now echoing the statement I’ve been making for years. I respect whatever choices these girls decide to make, as long as those choices are made in the absence of fear.

But, I think there are some things that these girls need to hear; some information only a survivor can pass on.

So, when they are ready, here is what I have to say:

I’m sorry that someone made you think violence is love. It isn’t, and there are people waiting to love you in the way you deserve.

I’m sorry that you felt that silence was safer than speaking out. If you feel like you do not have the courage to stand up and tell your story, you can borrow some of mine until you are ready. 

I'm sorry that your life was changed because of someone else’s actions. You are allowed to grieve the person you were before this, but please remember that this is not the end of your story. 

I’m sorry that the person who was supposed to love you made you afraid. You will feel safety in love & in your own skin again. 

I’m sorry that you feel like you’re broken now. There’s nothing wrong with you, and it won’t feel like this forever. There’s hope on the other side of abuse. 

I’m sorry for all of the insensitive and invasive questions that people ask you. Some of them mean well. Some of them don’t. You’ll learn the difference & you’ll decide what you’re comfortable sharing. 

I’m sorry that you flinch when someone raises their voice. Not all anger is accompanied by a fist. 

I’m sorry that you were manipulated to think that you are unworthy. You deserve the highest form of happiness and the truest form of love. Don’t stop until you find it, but do not always rely on others to give it to you. 

There is nothing you could have done to deserve abuse. There’s never an excuse to harm someone & there is no such thing as earning being harmed.

Suffering does not make you brave, and staying in a dangerous situation is not a testament to your compassion. 

It’s okay if you’re not ready yet, but please don’t spend your whole life in the dark. There is light inside you and a better world waiting. 

I love you. I’m not mad at you for not heeding my warning, or anyone else’s warnings. I know how convincing abusers are. It’s not your fault & you couldn’t have known better. 

You do not have to be afraid to come forward. You are not “ruining someone’s life”, and the only people who will ask for your silence are the ones who would benefit from it. It is not “stirring the pot” or “causing drama” to ask for justice. Their reputation is not your responsibility. 

However, you are under no obligation to come forward. Whatever brings you the most peace & puts you on the path to healing is what you should do. 

I am proud of you. Whether you tell the whole world or you never speak of it again, I am proud of you for existing & leaving and choosing a better life. 

You are not alone. I will stand with you and hold your hand until you feel like you can stand for yourself. I will support you and fight for you and carry you with me as long as you need. 

You have so many people who are here to support you, and it’s okay to let them in. You’re not a burden for needing to lean on people 

Prepare yourself for the reactions that the world will have. Remind yourself that you are not bound to the judgements and perceptions of others. Remind yourself that you are more than a negative comment or a snide remark. Remind yourself that you are worth the fight. 

Some people will love you no matter what you do, and some people will never love you no matter what you do. Go where the love is. Anyone who will not stand by you through this is not someone you want by your side at all. 

You are strong in spite of your abuser, not because of them. You do not have to be grateful that it happened in order to celebrate the person you are becoming. 

You are allowed to be angry, or sad, or upset, or even bitter. Anger is your friend & it wants you to know that you have been mistreated. Just remember that we are not meant to wear anger like a second skin; eventually you have to take it off, and set it down, and figure out what your life looks out without it. 

Forgive yourself for not knowing better until you knew better. Forgive yourself for the habits and traits you picked up during trauma. Forgive yourself for fighting back, or for not fighting back. You cannot shame yourself into healing you can only love yourself into evolving.

All of this is to say that I care about survivors in a way that I wish someone had cared for me. I know from experience what it feels like to be in a position where you’re turning over every stone looking for answers. I know how it feels to wish that someone would tell you what you’re supposed to do, what your life is supposed to look like now. There are plans for what happens if you’re in an abusive relationship. There’s plans for how to get you out. There’s no tangible plan for “after” abuse. So with that in mind, this is what I’ll close with: 

I know in my soul that you are brave enough to walk into the unknown and discover what your life looks like now. It’s going to look different, and that’s okay. I’m here if you need me, or if you need a cheering section, or if you just want to tell someone your story. You will only ever have my utmost admiration, never my pity. I created The Gabby Project for me, but I also created it for you. I’m behind you, and the community that surrounds TGP is behind you regardless of how you choose to move forward.

Embracing Change: Miss Luzerne County Shakira Jackson's Mission to Elevate Civic Engagement in Northeastern PA

(Luzerne County, PA) In the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania, a beacon of change has emerged, and her name is Miss Luzerne County, Shakira Jackson. Recently adorned with this prestigious title, Shakira brings not only a fresh perspective but also a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her community. Notably, she has recently earned her Masters degree from Georgetown University, a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.

Shakira's educational journey has equipped her with valuable insights that she now channels into her mission for increased civic engagement. Her academic achievements, combined with her grassroots community involvement, form a powerful combination that positions her as a leader poised to make a lasting impact on Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Beyond her academic accolades, Shakira's commitment to civic engagement extends to the establishment of her nonprofit organization, "Uniquely Engaged Citizen." This innovative initiative reflects her vision for a more inclusive political landscape, one where the voices of the younger generation, often underrepresented, can be heard loud and clear.

"Uniquely Engaged Citizen" focuses on finding funding for Gen Z candidates aspiring to run for public office. Recognizing the unique perspectives and fresh ideas that young individuals bring to the table, Shakira aims to break down financial barriers that often hinder their political aspirations. By providing support and resources, her nonprofit aims to empower a new generation of leaders who are passionate about making positive changes in their communities.

As Miss Luzerne County, Shakira envisions leveraging her title and nonprofit to create a synergistic approach towards civic engagement. Through partnerships with educational institutions, local businesses, and community organizations, she plans to amplify the impact of "Uniquely Engaged Citizen" and promote the importance of active participation in the political process.

Shakira's dual role as an educated professional and a grassroots community advocate positions her as a dynamic force for positive change. With her newfound title, advanced degree, and nonprofit venture, she seeks to inspire not only the residents of Luzerne County but also the entire commonwealth of Pennsylvania to embrace civic engagement as a collective responsibility.

Congratulations, Miss Luzerne County Shakira Jackson, on your well-deserved title and the establishment of "Uniquely Engaged Citizen." As you continue to lead by example, Northeastern Pennsylvania looks forward to a future where civic engagement thrives, and the voices of all, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, contribute to the vibrant tapestry of community growth and progress.

May 2024 bring you success and prosperity, along with a wealth of good fortune in your journey at Miss Pennsylvania.

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I can't thank Shakira enough for sharing thisg. You can learn more about her by checking out her interview with us on Section 36.

Happy New Year!

 Happy New Year from Section 36 Forevers!

Looking back on 2023, I'm thrilled with the content and progress of this here blog and could not be more excited about the future. 2022 saw a continuation of the refocus of the blog, and I was really able to grab onto that in 2023, by focusing on the titleholders and really creating a lifestyle blog where titleholders could share their stories.

I constantly honored to be allowed to share so many guest blogs. It's such an important part of what I'm doing here with the "for titleholders by titleholders" sort of feel. It's so wonderful to share the thoughts and views from so many different places.

With the discussion of blogs, I need to give a speical shoutout to Arianna Shanks-Hill. Her powerful series on domestic violence is definitely a must read. This year also included several more from Katelyn Andrist. Her continuing "Committing to Confidence" guest blog series has been a great way to see her expand on her CSI. We've been able to reach so many people together, and I can wait to have that series continue. Hannah Roque was also kind enough to submit multiple post for us this year, which I certainly hope continues.

Beyond that, I was able to share a few "Farewell" blogs from titleholders turning over their crowns, reflections on Miss America Journeys, at appearances, and deep dives into SIIs. It's been so much fun to share so many amazing posts. (Interested in writing one of your own? Feel free to reach out.)

And don't forget the Section 36 store! I love seeing titleholders showing off their favorite merch! Do you have any yet?

There has also been a social media growth! As I hope you're aware, the Section 36 Forevers social media presence is out there. How? I'm glad you asked!
 
Instagram is probably the place I’ve seen the most movement in the past year. It’s been great connecting with fans and visitors through that site. I use that account to post any and all pictures that have been submitted by my interview guests. Maybe they were pictures that went along with their interviews, or extras that couldn’t fit with the interview. Or, they’re pictures that have been submitted after visiting. Whatever the case, I post them and use them to remind people of their visit. It’s fun because it adds a lot of different content to the feed. That account had a big 2023! 

Facebook provides fun opportunities. It posts links to titleholder interviews, as well as any pictures former visitors have submitted. It has also started posting pictures of any titleholders with Section 36 gear, whether they’ve visited or not. The number of people who like that page continued to grow in 2023.

With all those ways to connect with Section 36 Forevers, there should be plenty of ways to share the amazing things my visitors are doing. I can't want to bring that to a much larger scale.

It’ll be a lot of fun. I hope you'll come along for the ride! 

And I hope you'll consider a guest blog!

Gratitude in a Time of Great Expectations by Jude Maboné

Andy Jones

As the year comes to a close and I simultaneously prepare to submit my business school applications and head to Miss America, it would be easy to miss the beauty of my present reality in the whirlwind of stress and emotions that accompany big life events. I am one of fifty-one women who will have the honor of competing at Miss America 2024. Wow. This dream that stemmed from a time in my life where I went to bed thinking each night would be my last is finally realized after nine years and seven “state” competitions.

2023 was the most challenging and transformative year of my life. I entered this year asking God for really big yeses and it feels like He has opened doors for me personally and professionally that I had spent nearly a decade trying to kick down. I knew that I needed my life to change, but the experiences that I’ve had, the people I’ve met and the way my perspective has shifted far exceeds what I’d prayed for. 

Many wonderful things have happened to me, and I feel immense gratitude as I reflect on how much my life has changed since January and the ways I’ve been able to scale my impact. It has been the honor of my lifetime these last six months representing our nation’s capital and the community of people who live here and are often overlooked. I can see the tangible change we’ve made in such a short time providing our most vulnerable neighbors with access to CPR and AED education, and resources for heart healthy living thanks to my partnerships with MedStar Health and the American Heart Association. 

This year was, without a doubt, one of the happiest of my life, but it was also one of the most challenging. I’ve grieved, made tough decisions, and have made many sacrifices. Yet as I reflect, I am reminded that what makes life so precious is that blend of joy and pain. We can simultaneously grieve and celebrate and that’s what makes being human so special. I will carry that sentiment with me to Orlando.

In three weeks, I may or may not become Miss America 2024 and I am content with that. I would love to end the eighty year drought for DC (the last Miss DC to win was Venus Ramey in 1944, only the second Miss DC to win since Margaret Gorman, the first Miss America in 1921), collaborate with Miss America HQ on how to grow the brand (I’m an aspiring brand manager), and have the opportunity to represent the 125.5 million Americans like me who are living with heart disease as Miss America. But I’m also already implementing the impact I want to make now. Miss America aside, I am a leader in my community and am making the world safer and heart healthier every day. I am excited for whomever will earn the honor of being Miss America and feel blessed to be in a position where she will be either myself or one of my new friends.

 

So, as the year ends and I finally have the opportunity to take the stage, I am filled with gratitude, peace, and a healthy dose of humility. I believe that my God has me in His hands and that the outcome will go exactly according to His will and that’s a really satisfying place to be. My focus in Orlando will be to inspire others to relentlessly pursue their dreams, take risks and live in the “today.” 

DC, I cannot wait to represent you on the national stage. Thank you to all who have invested in me to get me to this moment. Orlando, here we come. I’ve never been more ready and I couldn’t be happier. 

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I can't thank Jude enough for sharing her first guest blog. You can learn more about her by checking out her interview with us on Section 36.