Why did I choose this?

I chose this project because I thought it would be interesting to learn about how Miss America and Miss Deaf America could be related.  It still takes a lot of work to get to where the winners are today.  Some people think Miss Deaf America is isn't taken as seriously, and it doesn't get recognized as much as it should.

First Miss Black Deaf America

In 2009 Briana Johnson was crowned Miss Black Deaf America.  She is the current title holder of the pagent. 
Miss Johnson is currently a sophomore at Gallaudet University in Washington, DC. She wants to become a U.S. Congresswoman or Lawyer. 

How did you feel when they announced you as Miss Black Deaf America?
  Blessed, triumphant, and victorious are only some of the words to describe what I felt when they announced me as Miss Black Deaf America. Instantly empowerment, encouragement, and strength filtered my extreme joy, happiness, and gratitude. I am so thankful to have this opportunity to carry this title!!

What will you do to promote NBDA?
  My duty to promote the NBDA Organization is to first and foremost walk in integrity as I inform, lead, and instruct others regarding NBDA and all that the organization does. In honor of holding such a prestigious title of Miss Black Deaf America, I am committed to NBDA to market, advertise, and carry out the pre-planned assignments set by the leaders of NBDA. I will promote NBDA by way of internet, public speaking and performing, educating, and writing about the outstanding and very credible achievements of times past and the even greater accomplishments for the future.
http://www.nbda.org/news/Interview_MissAmerica.html

Heather Whitestone

Heather Leigh Whitestone was born February 24, 1973 in Dothan, Alabama, and she was the first deaf Miss America title holder even though she had lost most of her hearing when she was eighteen months old.  She had haemophilus influenzae and was rushed to the hospital. The only way to save her life was to give her strong anti-biotics which left her with profound hearing loss in her left ear. He mom discovered her deafness by dropping pans on the kitchen floor and Heather did not respond.  Her mom then decided that Heather would read lips and learn to speak instead of learning sign language. She was critisized in the deaf community because of her decision to not learn sign langue.  She eventually learned how to use sign language but she still strongly speaks out against it.
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heather_Whitestone
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=heather+whitestone&FORM=BIFD#focal=086053f5fdfa11a9aec030d3e8cb0174&furl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.deaflion.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2009%2F08%2FHeather-Whitestone.jpg

Miss Deaf America Pagent Introduction

The Miss Deaf America Pagent (MDAP) is a contest that offers woman between the ages of 18-28 an equal opportunity as hearing people to gain self confidence as they compete to become the spokeswoman of National Association of the Deaf. (NAD) http://www.uad.org/mdup/mdap_history.htm The first Miss Deaf America Pagent took place in Miami beach, Florida in 1972. This first pageant only had five contestants, but it was powerful turning point in the deaf world.  Since then, it rules have changed and it has gotten a lot more competitive.  For example,  before contestants reach the national level competition, participants must compete at the local and state level, which is enabling a large number of women an opportunity to test their public-speaking and stage presence, and their ability to "think on their feet."  To "think on one's feet" means to be able to quickly assess unfamiliar or unexpected situations and make a sensible decision in those situations.  Talent is no longer "the only thing".  They are also judged across broad categories including community service, academics, current events, and knowledge of deaf culture.