‘I AM SILENCED’: Is Miss USA’s resignation post a cry for help?

Despite the straightforwardness of Noelia Voigt's message, fans uncovered a hidden message in her Instagram post.

Miss USA titleholder Noelia Voigt recently announced her resignation from her position, citing a need to prioritize her mental health. 

Despite the straightforwardness of her message, fans quickly uncovered a hidden message in her Instagram post.

Voigt, who represented Utah and made history as the first Venezuelan-American to win the Miss USA title in September 2023, shared her decision to step down in a seemingly heartfelt Instagram post.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Noelia Voigt (@noeliavoigt)

“I realize this may come as a large shock to many,” Voigt, 24, wrote in the post's caption. “Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth. A million thank you’s to all of you for your constant and unwavering support. Time to write the next chapter.”

In the comments of her post, Instagram user kimberlydorrell left a comment, which has since got 400 likes, pointing out that the first letter of every sentence in the statement spell “I AM SILENCED”

The Miss Universe pageant has faced numerous controversies in recent years, including accusations of sexual abuse by several Miss Universe Indonesia candidates against organisers last year.

Another Instagram user, Denisewhite_eag, expressed concern, highlighting the necessity for both directors and contestants to speak out. 

Alleging Miss Universe owner Laylah Rose's leadership style to be characterized by fear tactics that coerce individuals into silence, the commenter highlighted the imposition of restrictive NDAs, preventing victims from disclosing instances of abuse.

Former President Donald Trump previously owned the Miss Universe Organization, which oversees the Miss Universe, Miss USA, and Miss Teen USA pageants. 

He sold the organization to WME and IMG in 2015 following controversial remarks about Mexicans, leading broadcasters NBC and Univision to sever ties with him and the pageants, as reported by Rolling Stone.