Miss America Faces Criticism After Coronation
When Cassie Dongan won the Miss America title, she might not have envisioned that her win would quickly be followed by waves of criticism regarding her appearance. Almost immediately, social media was buzzing with negative comments about her makeup, with some saying that her look appeared too heavy under the bright stage lights. There were also voices suggesting that Sadie Schiermeyer, the runner-up from Texas, deserved the title more.
Speaking to Fox News Digital, Donegan, who represented New York in the competition held in Orlando, Florida, on September 7, mentioned that she wasn’t taking the hateful remarks to heart. “The reality is, when something significant occurs, there are countless opinions,” she reflected. She acknowledged the negative feedback but also expressed her respect for those opinions, seeing them as part of a larger discussion.
“Yes, it’s true that negativity exists, but it can sometimes overshadow the amazing things that are happening,” she added. Donegan, who aspires to be a role model for young girls, emphasized the importance of self-belief. “I want them to understand that they can achieve anything they set their minds to,” she said, highlighting the inner strength and empowerment that she believes is vital.
Miss America, rooted in the Atlantic City Beauty Contest started in 1921, has always aimed to provide scholarship opportunities for women across the country. The competition not only offers significant cash scholarships — over $5 million annually — but aims to impact lives personally and professionally.
Notably, Donegan’s achievement includes a $50,000 educational scholarship, alongside $3,000 awarded for her performance during the talent segment of the competition. While she faced an overwhelming wave of online criticism, she emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with positivity and supportive people to combat negativity.
Reflecting on her journey, Donegan mentioned her background, sharing that she grew up in a low-income family and experienced her share of challenges, including bullying and her mother’s health issues. Despite these hurdles, she believes in maintaining a perspective that one’s circumstances shouldn’t dictate their potential.
“There isn’t a rule that says you need wealth or a specific lifestyle to become Miss America,” she asserted. Throughout her reign, Donegan hopes to highlight unity in a divided society, drawing from her own experiences related to her family’s military background and the values of equality and respect. She concluded by asserting that through understanding and empathy, a greater sense of community could flourish.
