By Natalia Rueda 
As Texas rapidly diversifies, its long-held conservative values are beginning to crumble — thanks in part to one Miss Texas. Averie Bishop, who won the Miss Texas competition last year, is using her platform to advocate for progressive causes.
Bishop, a 26-year-old first-generation law school graduate, has emerged as an unexpected bulwark against the spate of far-right policies supported by Texas’s heavily male, White leadership. She is the first Asian American to win the Miss Texas crown in the pageant’s 85-year history. Armed with her platform, “Y’all Means All,” Bishop has traveled around the state and the world, giving well over 250 speeches that promote diversity and inclusion.
Her vocal stance against Texas’ conservative policies earned Bishop great acclaim this year. After the Supreme Court overturned abortion rights, she posted a TikTok video expressing her disappointment. In the months that ensued, Bishop spoke out frequently on issues of gun control, LGBTQ+ rights, and the need for comprehensive sex education.
When Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) signed laws banning diversity and inclusion programs, drag shows, and gender-affirming health care for minors, Bishop was at the forefront of those fighting back. In Austin, Bishop tried to explain her individual experience with diversity and inclusion programs to Republican leaders.
Bishop’s efforts have made her a symbol of change in a state that hasn’t seen a statewide Democratic victory since Ann Richards was elected governor in 1994 – and the message she is sending is resonating. Bishop’s presence on the Miss Texas throne is beginning to show that Texas is inching closer towards a progressive future.