The Miss America pageant has crowned its first winner from an Indian background – an aspiring doctor who plans to use the $50,000 (£31,000) prize money to fund her studies – sparking a flood of racist criticism on social media.
“I’m so happy this organisation has embraced diversity,” 24-year-old Nina Davuluri said in her first press conference, moments after winning the crown in Atlantic City. “I’m thankful there are children watching at home who can finally relate to a new Miss America.”
But within minutes of winning the title, Davuluri, whose talent routine was a Bollywood fusion dance, was the target of racist social media comments.
If you’re #Miss America you should have to be American,” said one on Twitter.
“WHEN WILL A WHITE WOMAN WIN #MISSAMERICA? Ever??!!” asked another.
Davuluri, however, brushed aside the negative comments.
“I have to rise above that,” she said. “I always viewed myself as first and foremost American.”
Source: The Guardian
