Q: When did you decide to audition for the Jet beauty
of the week?
A:I always
wanted to audition. And on that day It was kind of a last minute decision after
I was encouraged by a friend.
Q: When you woke up that morning what were your
expectations for the audition?
A:On the way to
the audition I didn’t know what to expect. After some of the girls auditioned
Kenya came out and gave a pep talk to those waiting. She told us to give it!
And I really thought she was being positive but obviously not.
Q: Were you nervous?
A: I was nervous, because I knew it was going
to be filmed.
Q: Was this your first time trying out for something
of this nature?
A: No. I have
tried out in the past, I have participated in several other events and worked
with many celebrities. All without incident.
Q: Before you went before the panel, what was the
atmosphere like?
A: It was cool. I thought she would have been
supportive, by her encouraging speech and her advice for us to "Give it,
and be sexy."
Q: Were there others who complained about Kenya’s
behavior toward them?
A: Yes. Q from 112, and many others have said her
behavior was horrible.
Q: I noticed that when she was making her negative
comments you maintained a smile? Why? What was going through your head at that
time?
A: I was trying to make her mad. I try to give the
opposite of negativity. She is such a hater it infuriated her. I maintained my
professionalism.
Q: How did her comments make you feel as an aspiring
artist?
A: It disappointed me because as a little girl I
looked up to her as a former Ms. USA. But it also made me feel good because she
was obviously threatened.
Q: In my opinion everyone who stands in leadership or
authoritative positions should at least show some compassion for those who are
trying to reach that plateau? Do you feel that Kenya Moore lacks compassion for
others?
A: I do. I think she has inner issues, and
insecurities.
Q: How do you feel she could have handled the
situation better?
A: She should have said it with more tact. She should
have kept her critique. She should also look at her past before she tries to
say something.
Q: How has your life changed since the incident?
A: It hasn't been any major changes. I'm realizing
that the hate is real when your trying to make it, and being exposed, good or
bad.
Q: Has it changed your professional plans any?
A: Not much, but I have enrolled back in school to
perfect my craft.
Q: Do you feel she should apologize publicly?
A: I do. But if she feels she doesn't want to it
shows who she really is. I want her to apologize not only for me but for women
everywhere, because she's putting down women who are just like her. I need it
and she will give it...
Q: Do you feel that she bullied you?
A: Not bullied but hated on. It can be considered as
bullied, but she's invisible to me.
Q: What are your thoughts about her now?
A: I don't look up to her, I actually despise her.
She has loss respect as a woman and a former Ms. USA. No respect right now.
Q: If you could say anything to anyone else who has
experienced this what would you say?
A: I would say continue to strive for what's in your
heart. If someone is putting you down, don't stop continue. Don't let the
problems of others affect you. Let the haters hate.
I also contacted the PACER Center & National Bullying
Prevention Center which is publicly supported by Ellen DeGeneres to seek their
advice regarding the definition of bullying, and how it affects those targeted.
Julie Hertzog, Director forwarded the following statement:
Definition of Bullying
Bullying behaviors can be much more complex and varied than
the stereotype of a boy beating up a smaller classmate. For example, harmful
bullying can also occur quietly and covertly, through gossip or on the
Internet, causing emotional damage.
Although definitions vary from source to source, most agree
that an act is defined as bullying when the behavior hurts or harms another
person physically or emotionally, and when the targets have difficulty stopping
the behavior directed at them and struggle to defend themselves. Many
definitions include a statement about the ”imbalance of power”, described as
when the student with the bullying behavior has more “power”, either
physically, socially, or emotionally. That may mean the student has a higher
social status, is physically larger, or emotionally intimidating.
Impact of Bullying
Research about the short- and long-term damage caused by
bullying shows that it affects students in many negative ways. It can affect
their education - students may avoid school, lack concentration, and their
grades may suffer. Bullying can also lead to physical and mental health
problems, including sleeping problems, headaches and stomachaches, depression,
self-harm (such as cutting), increased fear or anxiety, and thoughts of
suicide.
Although Ms. Hertzog's comments were directed toward
students I feel that the information she provided is applicable to all ages. I
also feel that bullying is a serious problem in America ans for a former Ms.
USA to conduct herself in such a manner. What does this say to our children,
both those struggling with being bullied, and those who are bullying. Is Ms.
USA really saying it's okay to publicly, humiliate, embarrass, and insult an
innocent person.
I'm not judging Kenya Moore, and I don't know what she was
thinking at the time but I would definitely like to her response and see her render an apology to
Krystle and others who have been victims of bullying.
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