In 1983, a 20-year-old musical theater student from New York named Vanessa Williams entered the Miss America competition as Miss New York—and was crowned the first African American winner in the pageant’s over 60-year history.
Rising Star Faced Discrimination And Threats
Williams was a standout from the beginning with her impressive talents in singing, dancing and performance art. However, the young trailblazer also faced intense racism including death threats, as many were still opposed to a Black beauty queen.
As Williams recalled in 2015: “When people tell you that they’re going to throw acid on your face and kill you because of who you are, it’s terrifying as a 20-year-old.”
Nude Photo Scandal Led To Relinquishing Crown
In July 1984, just 10 months into her groundbreaking reign, scandal erupted when Penthouse magazine published nude photos of Williams taken before her pageant days.
Despite no consent from Williams, she became the target of public shaming. Williams was pressured to resign her title, which she did on July 23, 1984.
Williams Overcame Controversy To Launch Singing And Acting Career
Rather than let the experience defeat her, Williams moved forward with resilience. She built a successful music career starting with her triple platinum album “The Comfort Zone” in 1991.
Her acting talents also brought Emmy nominations and praise for roles in TV shows like “Ugly Betty” along with films such as “Soul Food.”
In 2015, the Miss America Organization apologized for its poor treatment of Williams during the 1980s scandal. Yet her groundbreaking achievement remains intact, having opened the door for more diversity within the pageant.
Lasting Influence On Black Beauty Queens
Since Williams’ coronation, eight more African American women have been crowned Miss America. Her poise and grace under fire directly inspired young Black girls for generations.
As 2010 winner Caressa Cameron put it: “To see a real Black woman that looked like me be honored as ‘the ideal’ was awe-inspiring.”
Through adversity, Williams still reached incredible heights while exemplifying the beauty, talent and resilience of Black women.
