Trans woman and advocate announces plans to compete in Miss Georgia USA
https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/trans-woman-and-advocate-announces-plans-to-compete-in-miss-georgia-usa/ar-AA1zKS76?ocid=hpmsn&cvid=dca3c3ad7c904ae2c95b1242a3b1abda&ei=37
Story by Joyce Lupiani (25 Feb 2025)
ATLANTA - Bella Bautista, a 22-year-old transgender woman, is preparing to compete in the upcoming Miss Georgia USA pageant starting June 12.
In an interview with the local publication Rough Draft, Bautista shared her uncertainty about how she will be received in the competition, expressing hope that she will be treated equally and judged fairly.
Bautista has been actively involved in advocacy, testifying before the Georgia Senate Committee on Education and Youth against a bill that would ban transgender athletes from competing in school sports. Although the Georgia Senate passed the bill, it still awaits a vote in the House.
Her activism includes multiple visits to the state Capitol, most recently for House Resolution 63EX, which recognized Trans Day of Remembrance.
Bautista's participation in the Miss Georgia USA pageant, beginning June 12, highlights her push for inclusivity and acceptance. Her involvement in the pageant symbolizes a broader message of representation and equality within the competition.