The Black Student Union held its first Mr. & Miss Black University of Alabama pageant on Wednesday night in the Student Center Theater. Of the 16 contestants who competed for the title, Cameron Morgan and Adeana Gray were named Mr. and Miss Black University of Alabama.
Participants competed in three categories: casual wear, talent and formal wear.
The casual wear section, coined “Crimson Tide Pride” by the BSU, had each contestant demonstrate their school spirit through outfits they would wear to support the Crimson Tide. Bama pom poms, cowgirl and cowboy boots made an appearance, as well as hand-made accessories and clothing.
“I enjoyed the creativity and innovation of the pageant. For it to be the first of its kind, it was remarkable to see so many people embody what excellence looks like,” said Ja’Kobe Bibbs, a sophomore majoring in political science and African American studies.
For the talent portion, contestants showcased their skills through activities like original poems or poems from Black writers, or original songs or covered music.
William Battle and Royalty Coats, the recipient of Miss Voters Choice, performed a duet of the song “Best Part” by Daniel Caesar featuring H.E.R., and Morgan performed an original poem entitled “Diamond in the Sky.”
“These kinds of events bring people together because we can get so caught up in our academics and just stay inside our rooms, especially now that it is midterm season,” said A’mari Brown, a freshman majoring in kinesiology. “This is the perfect time for everyone to come around, see family and friends, and just have fun before things get chaotic.”
For the formal wear part of the pageant, each contestant wore either formal gowns or suits in a range of colors while host Jasmine Jones, a sophomore majoring in news media, shared more information to the audience and judges about the contestants’ accomplishments, goals and extracurriculars.
Gray said her drive to compete in the pageant stemmed from wanting to fight for both the BSU and the now-food pantry that was previously the office of the BSU. She emphasized that she fights against food insecurity and is passionate about student hunger at the University, but was saddened that the space dedicated to the BSU was taken away.
“It was literally just a leap of faith,” Gray said of her decision to compete in the pageant. “I did not have to spend any extra money. I was fighting with anxiety this entire time. It just makes me know that God’s timing is perfect.”
