On this Memorial Day in the United States, it is a time for reflection. Many people know I am the daughter of a Navy pilot who retired as a Rear Admiral. My formative years were during the Vietnam War, and on the base where we lived, news of death or someone being taken prisoner was a common occurrence. I can still feel the fear at turning a corner and seeing the dreaded “gray car” parked outside the home of a neighbor and praying it never found a spot outside our house.
For as long as I can remember Dad always taught my brothers and me that he had taken an oath to protect our country and to fight for democracy. He and so many others were willing to put their lives on the line to fight for an ideal, formulated by our founding fathers. He instilled in us the notion that a democratic society’s survival is not guaranteed and must be cherished and protected by an educated citizenry.
We are now at a great crossroads in this country. I am not a member of either political party, but I am an American who believes in the importance of democracy and the need to hold each other accountable. Democracy cannot survive if we allow lies to flourish and do not protest as constitutional norms and guardrails are continuously diminished. We must not listen to soundbites, we must search for facts, and we must acknowledge those facts, even when they contradict the story we want to believe. There is no such thing as “alternative facts” unless we allow it.
And so, on this Memorial Day, I hope we all take a moment to think about and thank those men and women (and their families), who have sacrificed, either by injury or loss of life, for the ideal of democracy, including those men and women who protected the Capitol on January 6th, when our democracy faced one of its greatest challenges. Nearly 140 police officers were injured and five died as a result of that day, fighting to hold the line. As an American, I thank you.
It is up to us to ensure their sacrifice was not in vain. We must demand that our leaders actually be leaders and not enablers. Politicians took the same oath as our men and women in uniform. They must now learn to live by it.
Happy Memorial Day!
Last week, I was both honored and humbled to travel back to Athens, Ohio to be inducted into the Ohio University College of Communications Hall of Fame. One of the top communications schools in the country, OU is where I learned to use my voice and started me on my incredible professional journey. Many thanks to Dean Scott Titsworth and Erin Roberts for making it happen and a special thanks to @brookleeofficial for sending a “maile” all the way from Hawaii to mark the occasion. Feeling blessed and grateful.
In a time when our politics are so polarizing, it is refreshing to meet a woman with vision and a commitment to getting things done. It was inspiring to spend time with @gewhitmer#governorgretchenwhitmer today. A truly transformational leader.
Since announcing my resignation in November of 2023, I have sought to stay out of the spotlight, electing not to comment on any of the changes within the Miss Universe Organization, seeking only to quietly help the brand and its stakeholders, when requested, with my historical knowledge and guidance.
However, recent false and outrageous comments made by Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip impugning my character have compelled me to break my silence.
Normally, I would choose to ignore such assertions but, by suggesting that I am corrupt and took money “under the table” to secure placements in Miss Universe competitions, Jakrajutatip not only defames me, but she also discredits the women who have won the Miss Universe crown by implying their titles were “bought” and not earned by merit. I cannot abide by such dangerous and reckless assertions, which degrade the Miss Universe brand and its Titleholders.
I am presently considering my legal options in Thailand and what actions I might take. However, given that my complaint will be just one of many legal actions currently facing the owner of JKN, it is imperative for the Miss Universe brand and its legacy that I immediately speak the truth and condemn these words before taking any action in Thai courts and I am reserving all rights to claim for damages.
I have no intention or need to engage in drama on social media and I will not do so. Anyone who knows me knows the truth and what I stand for. I will let my years of work with some truly incredible women speak for itself.
Goodbye, Universe! Thank you for the greatest adventure anyone could ever wish for. It has been an honor and a privilege to guide this brand as president through thick and thin for over 20 years. Thank you to our fans, directors and the amazing titleholders I have been blessed to meet throughout the years. You are what makes Miss Universe great! I love you all! And to avoid speculation…… I am definitely not retiring. I will see you all soon! ❤️
The best part of my job is all of the truly incredible women I have been able to meet over the years. A wonderful evening with a great friend. Loved seeing you @bui.simon
Thank you President Bukele @nayibbukele for hosting @annejkn.official and our delegation to discuss the final preparations for the 72nd Miss Universe. We are so grateful for your support and the support of all the people of El Salvador. The team you have assembled is one of the most professional I have ever worked with and I know the event will be spectacular. Looking forward to showcasing the new El Salvador to the world. Two weeks until delegate arrivals!!
