Daniela Victoria Arroyo Gonzalez made history as the first trans woman to be chosen as a contestant for Miss Universe Puerto Rico.
This was confirmed by the organization of the local competition, which announced the selection via social networks today, Thursday.
The young woman will join other candidates to succeed Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2022 Ashley Ann Cariño Barreto. The winner will represent Puerto Rico at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador.
“Following my intuition with a high degree of certainty and saying that this is a start. I trust my heart and what the universe has written for me.”wrote the graduate of the Faculty of Communication at the University of Puerto Rico in Río Piedras on her Instagram account.
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The young woman had received a “recall” from the election in 2019, but was unable to compete at Miss Puerto Rico on that occasion.
Arroyo González’s election was celebrated by the trans activist Johanna Cifredowho said, “Daniela has everything to be a worthy representative of the courage and endurance of the Puerto Rican woman.”
The first trans woman to compete for the universal crown was Angela Poncewho represented Spain at Miss Universe 2018. Despite not qualifying for the semifinals that year, she received special recognition for her historic performance.
“I don’t have to win Miss Universe, I have to be here,” said the Spaniard.
The international competition was taken over by the Thai businesswoman in 2022 Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatipwho is a trans woman. During the final night of Miss Universe, Anne delivered an impressive speech as the first woman to lead the prestigious campaign.
“Welcome to the platform for the empowerment of Women. Miss Universe is now run by women and for all women to celebrate the power of feminism diversity, social inclusion, gender equality and creativity that do good,” said Jakrajutatip.
Arroyo González thanked his supporters for their support. “I felt your support and I know your emotions are as strong as mine. Thank you all for the unconditional love,” he wrote on social media.