ATLANTA – Bella Bautista, a 22-year-old transgender woman, has decided not to compete in the upcoming Miss Georgia USA pageant, which begins on June 12. Bautista announced on Instagram that she will relinquish her Miss Buckhead USA 2025 title.
Bautista was unsure how she would be received in the competition, but expressed hope that she would be treated equally and fairly. However, nearly three weeks later, she made an announcement on her Instagram page:
“With a heavy heart, I officially relinquish my title as Miss Buckhead USA 2025. When I entered this pageant, I hoped to break down barriers, inspire others, and demonstrate how important representation is.
However, after careful consideration, I have determined that the organization’s affiliations and actions no longer align with my personal values and mission for inclusivity and a discrimination-free world.”
Bautista wrote that the decision to withdraw from the competition was difficult, and she felt as if she was disappointing her fans who were eager to see her compete. “It breaks my heart that this moment will not come to fruition, but I remain committed to my mission. I entered this competition to demonstrate that transgender women belong, that we deserve space, celebration, and the opportunity to pursue our dreams—none of that has changed.”
She also expressed gratitude to her supporters for their love and encouragement. “Though my journey in this chapter has come to an end, my story is far from over,” she wrote, signing off with, “Forever your Miss Buckhead USA 2025, Bella Bautista.”
The Miss Georgia USA pageant is produced by Greenwood Productions, which is led by Miss Tennessee USA 1989 Kim Greenwood. Greenwood and her husband, country musician Lee Greenwood, have both publicly supported President Donald Trump and attended his inauguration.
Bautista revealed on Monday that she is currently pursuing legal action against the pageant organizers. “But know this: the truth will unfold, and justice will be served soon,” she had written.
Greenwood Productions has not responded to Bautista’s announcement on Monday, but previously told FOX 5 that the eligibility requirements are set by the Miss Universe Organization and that “we look forward to welcoming all eligible contestants and giving them the experience of their lifetime.”