Miss Universe has made huge strides in diversity and representation in the last few years. With Angela Ponce making the first ever transgender representation in Miss Universe in 2018, the national organizations are now openly welcoming LGBTQIA+ community to an esteemed platform such as Miss Universe.

Daniela Arroyo González has now made history as she has become the first transgender woman to compete in Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2023. Daniela Arroyo González is the co-founder of the Puerto Rico Trans Youth Coalition. This was her second attempt to make the cut.

Becoming the official delegate of Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2023, Daniela took to her official social media as she wrote, “The emotion and pride that I feel in this moment overwhelms me with joy. It’s time to show how far we can go. This is my time. Let’s make history together!”

In 2018, González won a federal lawsuit against the government of Puerto Rico to give transgender people the right to change their gender on their official birth certificate. “The right to identify our own existence lies at the heart of one’s humanity. And so, we must heed their voices: ‘The woman that I am,’ ‘The man that I am’”, the official statement of the judge read.

Daniela, with her strong personality, her stunning beauty and being the voice of change and empowerment for her community, will be a strong contender for Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2023. Ashley Ann Cariño Barreto Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2022 will crown her successor at the end of the event finale.