Dec. 1 at Billy Mills Middle School, each candidate draws from a basket of questions. There are four questions, given at random, that the candidate for Miss Indian Youth of Lawrence could select. Senior Lawson Garcia, the would be winning candidate of the title SR Miss Indian Youth, draws the last question out of the basket and responds to a prompt regarding how she plans to impact the native community within our school district if awarded the title.
Garcia explained post-award the ways in which she has been able to aid and impact thus far.
“So far with this title I have represented Native American Student Services at N.A.S.S. events, like their most recent parent meeting. There, I listened to what was being said by the parents in my community to see what is going on and what needs to be fixed,” Garcia said.
These questions, regarding a range of topics from goals to impact, however, were merely a part of the candidacy process. Other aspects included an application form put out by N.A.S.S. for those interested in running, that would then be followed up by an email informing an individual of their status as a candidate.
“After a few weeks, around November, I got an email stating I was picked as one of the candidates for this title. Then again after another few weeks, the pageant was held,” Garcia explained.
Garcia went on to describe the nature of the pageant, describing its fun and straightforward nature.
“This isn’t a kids in tiaras pageant, it is pretty simple and … exciting,” Garcia said.
Garcia also discussed the logistics of the pageant and the exhibitions that her competitors put forth to display a talent. The talent could be anything from cultural dance, to artwork and a variety of other personal passions. Garcia elected to create and present a mixed-media artwork.
Apart from the importance of this title with its opportunities and duties to the community, this title also holds deep personal significance to Garcia.
“Growing up in a mixed-race household I had always wanted to hold a princess title just like my cousins and this gave me a chance,” Garcia said.
Linking back to the community, Garcia also explained that the title has a significance to her with the overall opportunities it brings and the value it holds to the Lawrence community.
“This title also gives me the chance for a change in our community and school districts, it gives me a voice for young indigenous kids to help with their needs from N.A.S.S. and our community around us,” Garcia said. “I love that this title gives me a greater power to connect with people all over, not only here but other princesses and title holders around the country.”
