Alexis Smith known for her 'emotional' Miss Kansas speech reveals her abuser was in the audience

TOPEKA, KANSAS: Alexis Smith, who was crowned Miss Kansas, has opened up on her moving and powerful on-stage interview during the pageant competition on June 8.

During the segment, Alexis spoke with the judges about her passion for victim advocacy and her priority to “eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships."

Why did Alexis Smith's stage interview go viral during Miss Kansas pageant?

Alexis Smith turned to the audience and said, "Matter of fact, some of you out in this audience saw me very emotional, because my abuser is here today."

She continued, "But that’s not going to stop me from being on this Miss Kansas stage and from representing as the next Miss Kansas.” 

The clip was shared by the official Instagram page of the Miss Kansas pageant and instantly went viral, reports TooFab. 

"Because I and my community deserve healthy relationships. We deserve a domestic [violence]-free life," she said.

Speaking to ABC's 'Good Morning America' on Wednesday morning, July 24, which was also shared on their official Instagram handle, Smith said, "I needed to let him know right then and there that, yes, you're on my mind right now, but you're not going to take this opportunity away from me."

She also explained her commitment to the matter and its relevance to her with KSNW. "At the age of 14, I got in my first relationship, but it was also an abusive relationship that I was in until about 2018, 2019," she said, adding It’s something that I'm still experiencing and dealing with today."

"Being a woman who needed that empowerment all my life, being a bystander to domestic violence, a victim, a survivor, and now an advocate," Smith emphasized.

Netizens praise Alexis Smith for her strong on-stage interview

Internet rushed to praise reigning Miss Kansas for calling out her abuser. Many saw her as an inspiration and champion of people who have suffered any form of abuse from their partner. 

One user shared on Instagram on viral clip, "WHAT A WOMAN. This is absolutely incredible. From one survivor to another, I am SO SO proud of you for reclaiming this moment for yourself. You will do amazing things🫶🏽🫶🏽"

Another said, "of the most powerful and brave answers I've ever heard on stage. You will inspire so many queen."

"YAS GIRL! As a fellow survivor, you are an inspiration and I’m so proud of you for using your voice and showing your strength," a user praised Smith.

One shared, "Got chills then in Pratt and still get chills watching it back. You are a powerhouse Alexis!"

"STOOD ON BUSINESS! That’s our Miss Kansas and Yes, America, this is your girl!" another said.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.