Djuan Trent
Guess what? Beauty pageant contestants can be queer, too! Djuan Trent, the stunning 2010 Miss Kentucky and 2011 Miss America semi-finalist, proved that when she made history by coming out on her blog this past February, prompted by the battle over same-sex marriage in her home state. Says Trent: ″I never thought that I would see the day that I would live out comfortably…I remember being younger and feeling so envious of other young people who were living in their truth, and I could only hope that I would have the courage to do so one day.″ Now that that day has come, Trent is using her fame in positive ways. She talks to audiences about self-esteem, goal-setting and queer identity; she also works with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign, Dare to Be Bold and Southerners for Freedom to Marry (where she is co-chair). ″I feel blessed to have been so well-received by the LGBTQ community and allies. I strive daily to live my life in a way that will inspire others, in everything that I do…Now that I am out, I feel limitless and boundless.″ -GH
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