Brianna Mason Becomes First Black Miss Nashville In Pageant's 8-Decade History

"I AM MY ANCESTORS' WILDEST DREAMS," THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER SAID OF THE HISTORIC MOMENT.

Brianna Mason Becomes First Black Miss Nashville

BY ESSENCE · JULY 1, 2019

Congrats are in order for Brianna Mason, a 23-year-old elementary school teacher who became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Tennessee. It’s the first time a Black woman has held the top title in the pageant’s eight-decade history.

After her fourth time competing, Mason topped all the women on Saturday at the pageant, held inside the University of Tennessee, ABC News’ affiliate WATE reports.

The first grade teacher, who competed as Miss Greene County, performed “Piano Fantasy,” helping her win the coveted crown. Mason’s win not only earns her a $15,000 scholarship, but a chance to compete as Miss Tennessee at the forthcoming Miss America pageant.

In a lengthy post on Facebook, Mason not only thanked her supporters but reflected on her monumental moment.

“Words cannot express how grateful and humbled I am to be Miss Tennessee and carry on the legacy of this title. To know that God chose me to make history is such an honor. I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams,” she wrote. “I am so ready for this responsibility.”

Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss America Are All Black Women!
Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss America Are All Black Women!
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Mason joins the Black Girl Magic that’s been taking over the pageant world all year. Cheslie Kryst, Kaliegh Garris, and Nia Franklin were named Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America, respectively. It’s the first time ever that three Black women simultaneously hold titles from America’s biggest pageants.

Congrats again, Brianna!

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