Never associate beauty with weakness
Meaningful, emotional and powerful. These are the three words which can be used to describe Deshauna Barber’s final response before being crowned Miss USA 2016. “Define confidently beautiful,” asked co-host and actress Julianne Hough on the last night of the Miss USA pageant. What Miss District of Columbia said next captured the real essence of what it means to never underestimate someone’s ability to succeed.
“To me confidently beautiful means understanding that it’s not about your appearance…serving in the military has taught me about being able to earn respect from people regardless of what you look like. As a woman in the military, people associate beauty with weakness and they learn very quickly… and I’m extremely strong…”
DESHAUNA IS THE NEW @MissUSA 2016!!!!!!✨ #MissUSA pic.twitter.com/nNHfQZRaEL
— Deshauna Barber (@RealMissDCUSA) June 6, 2016
Although Miss Georgia and Hawaii had equally heart-warming responses, there was something captivating about Barber’s answer to the last question that would ultimately win her the title for Miss USA 2016. She took her time to express what she meant and how she felt based on her personal experience as a woman serving in the military. Miss DC defined ‘confidently beautiful’ in a way that makes us feel proud knowing we can accomplish anything we set our minds to.
Deshauna Barber is breaking the Stereotype
Thank-you for your service and for reminding us about what it really means to be confidently beautiful. Let’s remind ourselves that respect is earned not given and that our physical appearance does not define our character. Strength comes from within, comes with experience and lessons learned. Remember everyone, never associate ‘beauty with weakness’ because you may be surprised to see what’s underneath the surface.
The new Miss USA, who is strongly representing the U.S. military, will continue to show her support for military members with her goal to help veterans battling PTSD when they return from war. Watch Miss USA’s full response to the final question. It is a truly empowering and inspiring moment. Congratulations on winning the title for Miss USA 2016!
