Responding to the question about gender in the registration, Huong Giang said she had completed all procedures in accordance with the regulations of the organizing committee. Every year, Miss Universe has its own updates sent to the national director (ie the director holding the copyright of the Miss Universe contest of each country), so her participation is completely valid.
When asked if a transgender person competing in Miss Universe " Takes away opportunities from other women", Huong Giang replied in English, emphasizing: "I am not taking away opportunities from anyone, but are together redefining the strength and success of women in all circumstances. Miss Universe is no longer a contest dedicated to a beautiful girl, that era is over.
She also cited the United Nations' sustainable development goals, especially gender equality, saying that the presence of transgender women, women who have become mothers or have families is a manifestation of the diversity that Miss Universe is aiming for. My appearance does not lose the color of Miss Universe but also affirms the humanistic value that the contest is pursuing, Huong Giang said.
When asked about her age, Huong Giang answered firmly: The normal retirement age is 50-60. I am only 33 years old, why should I give up opportunities? In 13 years of working, no one has given me anything, I have tried to take every opportunity."
She said that attending Miss Universe is not to seek fame, but an opportunity for the world to see how elegant and confident a transgender person can be. "When the purpose is clear, whether it is won or lost is no longer important," Huong Giang affirmed.
Not appearing with the crown at the press conference, Huong Giang said that it was in line with the theme "Beyond the Crown - Going beyond the crown" of Miss Universe this year. She emotionally recalled her 13-year journey from being a contestant at Vietnam Idol in 2012 to being crowned Miss Redistrier International 2018 and said that she is carrying the hope of many Vietnamese people.
"No matter where this journey goes, I still want to leave a meaningful milestone, spreading good values of equality and courage," she said.
