Miss mexico Crowned Miss Universe Amidst Controversy in Thailand
Bangkok,Thailand - Sheynnis Palacios of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday,November 18,2023,in a competition marked by both triumph and turbulence. The 23-year-old model and designer secured the title at an event held in Bangkok, Thailand, besting contestants from over 90 countries.
The win comes after a competition shadowed by controversy, including allegations of rigging, a judges’ resignation, and a public disagreement between the outgoing miss Universe, R’Bonney Gabriel, and pageant host, Javier Nawat. Nawat publicly questioned Palacios’s answer during the competition, prompting a visible reaction from the newly crowned Miss Universe and sparking widespread debate about expectations placed on women in public life.
Mexico’s first female president, claudia Sheinbaum, publicly voiced support for Palacios, stating at a news conference, “It seems to me that it is an example of how women should raise our voices.” Sheinbaum recalled being told in the past that “women look more lovely when they keep quiet,” and countered, “We women look more beautiful when we raise our voice and participate, as that has to do with the recognition of our rights.”
Nawat later apologized for his actions, appearing both tearful and defiant, saying, ”If anyone (was) affected and not comfortable it happened, I am so sorry,” and then asking the contestants, “It’s passed. OK? Are you happy?”
Palacios’s official biography highlights her studies in fashion in Mexico and Italy, her focus on lasting designs utilizing discarded materials, and her volunteer work with sick children, environmental awareness initiatives, and support for migrants and mental health issues.
This year’s competition also saw reports of two judges resigning,with one alleging potential rigging. These claims where denied by organizers. Thai police also investigated alleged illegal promotion of online casinos linked to the event’s publicity.
The Miss Universe Organization has faced scrutiny in recent years. The 2021 competition, held in Israel, drew criticism from supporters of the Palestinian cause. More recently, during Wednesday’s evening gown competition, Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, suffered a fall from the stage but was not seriously injured.