Cierra Jackson, the only competitor to wear natural hair in this year’s Miss America pageant, won the competition’s swimsuit segment but lost out on the crown in the annual competition.
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Regardless, Jackson has broken a barrier regarding long, flowing hair on Miss America competitors.
The Spelman College graduate and author of CC the Military Kid! represented the District of Columbia and noted that before the pageant, she was pressured by some to straighten her hair.
“I’ve had so many people tell me that I shouldn’t wear my hair naturally curly onstage, but there is a purpose behind that vision,” said Jackson. “It’s to show people that you can still be successful; you can still be amazingly talented and still reach all of your goals. I think that’s a universal message that anyone can grab on to and hold on to in their lives.”
Kinky hair don’t care. Congrats, Miss Jackson!
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