A young lesbian is making history this weekend by becoming the
first openly-gay contender of a major California beauty
pageant.
Jenelle Hutcherson, 25, will compete for both Miss Long Beach
and Miss California USA - an annual event sponsored by Donald
Trump.
The Balersfield native plans to wear her handmade boy shorts and
tank top for the swimwear section and - for the evening-wear
competition - a royal purple tux.
"I would just like to say that the pageant for me is not just
about gay rights or making a statement in that direction," she
wrote on her Facebook page.
"The fact that i am wearing a tux will make it obvious I am gay.
Being gay is not the #1 that defines who I am, this pageant for me
is about everyone realizing that we are ALL fighting the same war
for the same cause, against hate. Fighting to be loved."
Speaking to GLAAD's Adam Bass she said: "I am running for Miss
Long Beach and Miss California USA. I will be the first to wear a
tux on stage. Also, this will be the first time someone who
is openly lesbian this will represented in this pageant.
"I hope to bring a message of equality. As an artist in the
beauty industry, I can appreciate every texture and color on my
pallet. I believe true beauty is something we see every day and
comes from within, and I will represent a variety of beauty on
stage."
Hutcherson needs to raise $1,800 to cover the competition's
registration. To donate, visit her
Facebook page.
