Beauty Queen Tries to Improve City's Image

A beauty pageant contestant from the crime-ridden Compton, California made famous by 1990s gangster rap is hoping to improve her city's reputation.

1 minute read

November 20, 2010, 7:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg


Shanice McKinley, 25, is hoping her participation in the Miss California USA beauty pageant -- a first for a Compton resident in more than 20 years -- will help change some of the negative stereotypes people have about her city.

"She said she decided to become one after a talent scout sent her the Miss California USA application packet because she wants to serve as a positive role model for young people in her city.

Too often, McKinley said, Compton people who succeed move away.

'They don't come back to the community to show the rest of the people that if I can do it, you can do it,' she said."

Thursday, November 18, 2010 in Los Angeles Times

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