Miss Maine is a Black Woman for the First Time in History

Portland, ME — Carolyn Brady made history in 2019 when she became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Maine. She is now using her platform to support and promote Black-owned businesses especially during Black History Month.

“I think if we have the opportunity to choose where we put our dollar and we can invest in a way that gives back in the long term that’s a really important thing to do,” Brady told News Center Maine.

To help lessen the revenue gap between people of different races, started an initiative to support Black-owned businesses. She also encourages others to do the same as she shares her experiences on Instagram.

During Black History Month, she dedicated herself to “buying black,” including at Rwanda Bean. It is a coffee company founded by Mike Mwenedata 8 years ago that gives back 50% of profits to coffee farmers in Rwanda for every cup of coffee purchased.

“As an immigrant American, I think we are really focused on how commerce and how our progress relates to future generations as well as our past,” she said.

Follow her on Instagram at @MissAmericaME