Black Girls ARE Beautiful!

Last night while doing what else but packing, I was watching SCETV and was able to view the second part of a two part series on the show "Connections". The two part series was discussing the beauty of black girls and women. I don't want to tell you everything about it because I really think you should watch it, but I do want to share my thoughts. It was great timing that I was able to catch this last night! It is so closely related to Miss Black USA and why I wanted to be part of this organization. For those that might question the relevance of Miss Black USA or who are "nervous" to say "Miss Black South Carolina USA 2011" - this is solid proof why this organization is in existence. Young black girls, and even black women,have issues with defining and accepting our beauty. It is so easy to say that all women have the same standards of beauty to live up to. If this was true, then people would not say "You're so pretty for a black girl". Think about it ladies and gentlemen!

Here's the link to the video for part 1: http://t.co/9h5JDrq
Part 2: http://t.co/ii63k6m

Hopefully this will be a small step to help the understanding of the plight of standards of beauty for black women - within our own race and among others.

It is important to show young black girls that they are beautiful inside and out! They have talents, achievements, personalities, and morals that make them beautiful. We need to teach that this is where our beauty as black women begins. Once our young girls understand this and feel confident in their abilities, they will undoubtedly have more confidence to find the beauty in being a young woman of color.

xoxoJordan Addison, Miss Black South Carolina USA 2011

Let's See How This Turns Out

This post is a little bit of an experiment. I'm writing this blog on my iPhone! The hotel charges $9.95 for Internet access, so all of my pageant week blogging will be coming from my beloved iPhone - figured I'd test it out. Hopefully I'll be able to upload videos on here, too! If not, I'm sure Facebook or Twitter will work.

When people ask me when I'm leaving for nationals, it's surreal to say "TUESDAY" instead of The usual "August 2nd".

Like this post, Saturday was a day of experimenting. Figuring out which liquids I could not live without, practicing my talent makeup, re-vamping my talent costume (THANKS MOMMY!!!), and trying on every outfit to make sure I have all the right shoes and accessories. I want to try and be an efficient packer for once and I think it's been successful! I have lots of versatile accessories and shoes that I've packed which helps free up space in my suitcase for other outfits!

I'll admit, this packing and such is so bittersweet. Next week is going to be such an awesome experience! I am excited to show the judges, audience, and everyone I meet in D.C. how amazing Carolina Girls are amd meet 29 other amazing women from their states. Of course I want to win, but just to have this experience, be part of this group of women, and part of HISTORY is such an honor! After Nationals is over, I'll still be out in the community and attending events, but my time will be winding down. This has been a great experience so far and given me a great perspective on life - I can't wait to see where it takes me next.

xoxoJordan Addison, Miss Black South Carolina USA 2011