'Stay tall': Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava praised as she gives up title after Miss USA's resignation
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava relinquished her crown on Wednesday, May 8, just two days after Miss USA Noelia Voigt resigned, per New York Post.
Srivastava stated that she had been contemplating this decision for months, ultimately choosing to resign because her "personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization." However, she did not specify which values were no longer in alignment.
Why did UmaSofia give up her title?
Seventeen-year-old Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava, formerly Miss New Jersey Teen USA, resigned, stating in a statement that her personal values "no longer fully align with the direction of the organization."
A source familiar with UmaSofia conveyed to the Post, "The decision was not easy. Noelia and UmaSofia are extremely dedicated individuals who worked incredibly hard for the pageant. The decisions were not made lightly. They all chose to take this step together."
The source added, “They are afraid of speaking out more at this time because of the organization. They don’t want this to have any lasting harmful effect on their futures.”
As per a close source who spoke with The Post, the reported bullying and harassment have escalated to such an extent that Srivastava's parents recently prohibited Miss USA Organization president Laylah Rose from communicating with their daughter.
"At the end of the day, I am so lucky to have had the privilege of this experience, but if this is just a chapter, I know that the story of my life will truly be incredible," Srivastava wrote in an Instagram post.
Why did Miss USA step down?
Miss USA Noelia Voigt, who was crowned Miss USA in 2023, stepped down on Monday, May 6. She posted a message to social media urging people to prioritize their mental health.
"Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and my hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain," Voigt said. [sic]
Miss USA Organization said in a Facebook post, "The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time."
Officials are currently reviewing plans for the handover of the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA titles to successors. A new Miss USA and Miss Teen USA will be crowned soon.
The resignations of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA came just days after the resignation of Miss USA's social media director, Claudia Michelle.
Internet lauds the step taken by UmaSofia
Numerous social media users expressed admiration for the "brave" decision made by Miss Teen and Miss USA. One Instagram user commented, "So proud of you my angel."
Another user said, "Sending you much love."
A user said, "Love you a million! You'll forever be one of the most extraordinary Miss Teen USA's we've ever had! We stand with you and we support you! I'm soooo proud of you bbygirl!" [sic]
Another user said, "To make this decision at your age just shows how STRONG, COURAGEOUS, BRAVE, and INSPIRING you are. I am so proud of you. Your future ahead is so bright, I'm so excited to see what's best for you. You will always be NJ's first Miss Teen USA - no one can ever take that from you. Hoping you and your family are able to feel a bit more at peace."
A user said, "Sending you love girl, Stay tall." While another user said, "Truly a queen."
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.
