Bella Bautista, a 22-year-old transgender woman, has announced she will not compete in the upcoming Miss Georgia USA pageant and will relinquish her Miss Buckhead USA 2025 title.
Bautista revealed her decision on Instagram, saying she initially entered the competition to break barriers and inspire others, but no longer felt aligned with the pageant’s values.
“With a heavy heart, I am officially relinquishing my title as Miss Buckhead USA 2025,” she wrote.
“When I joined this pageant, I did so with the hope of breaking barriers, inspiring others, and showing that representation matters. However, after deep reflection, I have come to the decision that the organization’s affiliations and actions no longer align with my personal values and my mission for inclusivity and a world free of discrimination.”
Bautista said the choice was painful, admitting she felt like she was letting fans down.
“It breaks my heart that this moment won’t come to fruition, but I remain committed to my purpose,” she continued. “I entered this competition to show that transgender women belong, that we are deserving of space, celebration, and the chance to pursue our dreams — nothing about that has changed.”
She signed her message, “Forever your Miss Buckhead USA 2025, Bella Bautista.”
About the organisers of the event
The Miss Georgia USA pageant is produced by Greenwood Productions, led by Kim Greenwood, a former Miss Tennessee USA, and her husband, country musician Lee Greenwood. Both have been vocal supporters of President Donald Trump and attended his 2017 inauguration.
Bautista revealed she is now in ongoing legal proceedings with the pageant organizers. “But know this: the truth will unfold, and justice will be served soon,” she added.
Greenwood Productions has not directly commented on Bautista’s latest announcement. In a previous statement to FOX 5, the organization said eligibility rules are set by the Miss Universe Organization and that they “look forward to welcoming all eligible contestants and giving them the experience of their lifetime.”
Featured image credit: instagram/bellabxllaa
