This historic moment was worth the wait, several months after the coronavirus postponed the event, Miss Mississippi USA Asya Branch wins the Miss USA Crown.
The 22-year-old University of Missississippi student is not only the first Black woman to represent Mississippi but the first-ever contestant from the Magnolia state to win the Miss USA Crown.
Branch was awarded the title on Monday night during the competition that was aired live from Elvis Presley’s Graceland Memphis. She was crowned by her predecessor, Miss USA 2019 Chelsie Kryst.
The following morning after her historic win, Branch spoke with WAPT News.
“It feels like a dream, it is incredible, I truly haven’t let it sink in yet.” Branch tells WAPT. “I am grateful to be able to severe as that example for someone, to show they don’t have to look like the person who came before them and they can break barriers.”
Branch, a Bonneville’s native, explains that being so close to where she grew up boosted her confidence. “it felt like I was home, I think that helped with my comfortability.”
Now, Branch will move to New York City in order to complete her philanthropic duties as Miss USA.
In a statement, Kryst explains how the role of Miss USA gave her the abilitity to help others.
“Being Miss USA has affronted me the opportunity to be an advocate for issues that deserve attention, including criminal justice reform and racial inequality. I am proud to continue the legacy of national titleholders who speak up and encourage change, and I look forward to supporting the next Miss USA and Miss Teen USA in doing the same.”
Branch has already expressed her interest in criminal justice reform and hopes to continue working on an issue so “near and dear” to her heart.
Due to the global pandemic, the Miss Universe competition has not yet been announced.
