Girls With Special Needs Strut Their Stuff at New York Pageant

Emma Duke’s big moment had finally arrived. The 22-year-old, who has Down syndrome, had been practicing her dance, a traditional Nigerian "coming of age" routine, for a month. Duke smiled wide as the song began, and it wasn't long before the crowd at the Miss Special Staten Island pageant went wild. She was one of nine contestants participating in the inaugural event, which was dedicated to increasing inclusivity and empowering girls with special needs.