A homecoming event for Miss Louisiana 2021 Julia Claire Williams was hosted by the Coushatta Casino Resort on Saturday, July 17, in the Conference Center.
Williams told local media that she was “over the moon excited” about the event. “It’s so wonderful to have a support system back home. I’m definitely a small town girl with big city dreams.” She was excited to return home and “see familiar smiling faces.”
Williams received the key to the City of Kinder from Mayor Wayland LaFargue.
After the event, Williams reflected on her win. “A few weeks prior to the Miss Louisiana competition, I remember jokingly saying to a friend, ‘Could you imagine if I actually won? How funny would it be if the headline were to read “Small-town girl from Kinder wins Miss Louisiana!’”
“As I now sit and reflect on my homecoming experience, my heart swells with even more pride to be able to say that I am from Kinder, aptly named because you are always welcomed with kindness and a smile.”
Williams said, “The celebratory reception hosted by the Coushatta Tribe was organized by several close family friends and catered by Crawcaine. It is, without a doubt, an event and night I will never forget. I became so choked up when I looked out into the crowd of those I hold so near and dear to my heart. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to everyone who made this possible. I am eternally grateful!”
Concluding her comments, Williams said, “To Kinder, Allen Parish and all of Southwest Louisiana: I cannot express how thankful I am for each and every one of you for welcoming me home with open arms, bright smiles and kind words. I am still incredibly overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support I have received throughout my journey to Miss Louisiana and even now as I serve as Miss Louisiana. Although I will spend the upcoming year traveling across the entirety of the state, I can assure you all of this: I will always carry my SWLA roots with me wherever I may go, as home is truly where the heart is.”
Williams is a pre-med student. She will participate in the 2021 Miss America 100th celebration and pageant to be held later this year. She hopes to become the first resident of Louisiana to win the Miss America title.
