Lake Como’s Bailey Howell Crowned Miss Juneteenth Texas 2025, Wins Best in Essay and Best in Talent; Prepares for Miss Juneteenth USA

 Lake Como’s very own Bailey Howell has been crowned Miss Juneteenth Texas 2025 following a stellar performance at the state pageant in Texas City this past July. Not only did she earn the coveted title, but she also took home the Best in Essay award for her impactful platform “CTRL+ART+Delete” and won Best in Talent, showcasing her outstanding skills and dedication to excellence. Bailey Howell, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and cultural empowerment, will now represent the state of Texas at the Miss Juneteenth USA pageant, taking place this October in Galveston, Texas – the birthplace of Juneteenth. Howell’s journey is a testament to her leadership, artistic vision, and commitment to positive change in her community.

“I’m incredibly honored and excited to represent Texas at the national level,” said Howell. “This opportunity is more than a title—it’s a platform to continue spreading the message of healing and empowerment through art, and I’m thrilled to carry that legacy forward.”

CTRL+ART+Delete: A Platform for Healing and Empowerment

Bailey Howell’s platform, “CTRL+ART+Delete”, earned her the Best in Essay award for its unique approach to combining art and mental health awareness. The platform calls for a powerful shift in how mental health is perceived in minority communities, advocating for the use of creative expression as a tool for healing and empowerment. “CTRL+ART+Delete” is a metaphor for clearing away emotional barriers and the negative stigma surrounding mental health. The platform encourages individuals, especially youth in communities of color, to use art as an outlet for self-expression, mental well-being, and cultural preservation. Howell believes that art can serve as a form of therapy, allowing people to confront and express their emotions in ways that words alone cannot.

“Through art, we can heal, find our voice, and press ‘Delete’ on the stigma that has historically silenced us,” Howell stated. “I want young people to know that their creativity is a source of power, and it’s through these creative outlets that we can truly begin to overcome challenges and create change.”

Best in Talent: A Showcase of Excellence

Bailey’s Best in Talent award was earned for her captivating performance during the pageant, highlighting her diverse skills and artistic versatility. Whether through her powerful presence or her commitment to showcasing her talent with grace, Howell demonstrated the poise and professionalism that set her apart as a leader in the competition.

Fort Worth Celebrates Bailey’s Success with a Send-Off Celebration “Brunch with Queen Bailey”

To celebrate her success and wish her the best of luck as she prepares for Miss Juneteenth USA, The Miss Juneteenth Texas Pageant organization will host a Send-Off Celebration on Sunday, September 28th at Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles in Fort Worth. This special event will be a chance for the community to come together, celebrate Bailey’s remarkable accomplishments, and show support as she represents the state of Texas on a national stage in October. Guests will have to purchase their own meals.

“We are incredibly proud of Bailey and all that she has accomplished. This is just the beginning of her journey, and we can’t wait to see her shine at Miss Juneteenth USA,” said, State Director Karrie Hargrave. “This send-off is a way for everyone to show their love and support, and to encourage others to follow Bailey’s example of leadership, art, and advocacy.”

Support Bailey’s Journey
Bailey Howell is inviting the community to support her journey to the Miss Juneteenth USA pageant through donations, which can be made via CashApp at $BaileyHOWL. Every contribution will help support her travel, attire, and other expenses associated with the competition.

“Your support means the world to me as I take this next step in my journey,” Howell expressed. “Thank you for believing in me and helping me represent Texas at Miss Juneteenth USA.”

Event Details

What: Bailey Howell’s Send-Off Celebration
When: September 27, 2023
Where: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles,  2707 Race St #117, Fort Worth, TX 76111
Time: 2:00-4:00pm
CashApp Donations: $BaileyHOWL