Racist polemic in RD: candidate in Miss Universe 2025 contest accused of being Haitian

    Margarita Simon•©️FranceInfo

    Santo Domingo, 10 July 2025.- Margarita Simon, Santo Domingo candidate Is at the contest Miss Universe Dominican Republic, is at the center of a lively controversy. Thousands of Internet users question her selection, claiming that she does not represent the Dominicans because of her dark skin. Magali Febles, holder of the franchise in the Dominican Republic, defended his choice in the local media.

    On Instagram, she confirmed that Margarita Simon is indeed Dominican, in good order with a valid passport and identity card. She also explained that the candidate's head had been shaved to avoid criticism on her curly hair.

    « The comments are racist, painful and deeply offensive. The Dominican is not defined by the colour of his skin or his family name, but by the Constitution, our values, our commitment and our love for this country. This young woman embodies the true Dominican woman: black, brave and proud », she said.

    Magali Febles also denounced persistent discrimination: in a country where many foreigners move freely, only people « black hair, curly and from modest backgrounds » are systematically humiliated, despite their dignity and pride.

    It should be noted that the final of the Miss Dominican Republic competition, which will nominate the national representative to the Miss Universe competition, will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025.

    W.E.