Miss Oklahoma Contestant Fighting To Bring Back Organization For Domestic Violence Survivors

A Miss Oklahoma contestant is fighting to build up an organization to support domestic violence survivors in the state.

The Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence was forced to dissolve in 2023 after a federal investigation into misspending, however, Miss Capital City Michaela Childs said she wants to use her platform to encourage survivors like herself to find success.

"It's really hard to overcome abuse," Childs said. "Not only to unlearn that hate but [to] be willing to reach out to the community and do good and show love to other people after unlearning hate."

As Childs competes for Miss Oklahoma this week, she is fighting for easier access to resources.

Childs said she wishes she heard more stories of survival, in hopes others can recognize abuse and find a way out.

"Beyond the impact of just ourselves, there is a ripple effect within our community," Childs said. "So leaning into the fact that your story can serve more than just yourself is something I really prioritize in my journey."

If Michaela upgrades from Miss Capital City to Miss Oklahoma, she said she hopes to make a one-stop shop with easy-to-find domestic violence resources for survivors in the state.

In the meantime, Childs said she is gathering signatures to bring a coalition like the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence back to the state.