Editor’s note: The video above is from previous coverage.

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A transgender woman from metro Atlanta will no longer run in the Miss Georgia USA competition, she announced on Monday.

In a social media statement, 22-year-old Bella Bautista said she has relinquished her Miss Buckhead USA 2025 title and will not take the stage at the statewide event, which will be held in McDonough in June.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: For first time, transgender woman announces plans to compete in Miss Georgia USA

“I have come to the decision that the organization’s affiliations and actions no longer align with my personal values and my mission for inclusivity and a world free of discrimination,” she said.

Bautista added that there are “ongoing legal proceedings,” although she didn’t offer specifics.

“But know this: the truth will unfold, and justice will be served soon,” she said.

In February, Bautista became the first openly transgender woman to announce she would run for Miss Georgia USA. The winner will compete nationally to be named Miss USA.

“You know what, I’m just going to sign up, I’m going to wish for the best and hopefully that I am treated fairly and scored fairly as well,” she told Atlanta News First at the time.

Now, Bautista said the decision to step out wasn’t easy.

“It breaks my heart that this moment won’t come to fruition, but I remain committed to my purpose,” she said. “I entered this competition to show that transgender belong, that we are deserving of space, celebration, and the chance to pursue our dreams — nothing about that has changed."

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.

Copyright 2025 WANF. All rights reserved.