What began as a small Benjamin Franklin lookalike contest in Philadelphia drew more attention online than it did in person after the winner was announced at Independence Mall over Fourth of July weekend.
Held near Independence Hall on the eve of July Fourth, the event was part of local Independence Day programming loosely tied to broader celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Organizers said the goal was to create a lighthearted community activity in a historically significant location.
Participants paid a small entry fee to take part in a costume contest featuring Franklin and other figures from 18th-century colonial history.
Around 30 entrants participated, arriving in powdered wigs, colonial coats, and handmade outfits intended to reflect Franklin’s well-known historical appearance.
Some participants carried props such as glasses, quills, and period-style accessories, while others relied on improvised wardrobe pieces assembled for the occasion.
Organizers later said turnout exceeded expectations for a small outdoor event held during a crowded holiday weekend in Philadelphia, according to the Daily Mail.
When 25-year-old Kiya Burgess, a black woman, was announced as the winner, applause broke out among attendees gathered at Independence Mall.
She appeared in a self-constructed costume that included a wig, vest, jacket, and round glasses, combining handmade construction with repurposed clothing items adapted for the contest.
Burgess said portions of the outfit had originally been created for earlier cosplay projects before being modified for the Franklin-themed competition.
She described spending several days adjusting, sewing, and assembling the costume piece by piece rather than purchasing a finished outfit.
Shortly after the contest concluded, photos and video began circulating across social media platforms, quickly expanding the reach of what had been a localized Independence Day activity.
The attention shifted the focus from the event itself to online reactions as users commented on Burgess winning the contest.
“Literally and figuratively as opposite of Ben Franklin as possible,” one X user wrote, while another wrote, “Spitting image they are like twins.”
Others pointed out the hypocrisy of the decision.
“Imagine the outrage if a white woman won a Barack Obama lookalike contest,” another user wrote
“I bet you can’t win the George Floyd contest if your white,” another commented.
Some users came to Burgess’ defense, stating that it was harmless fun.
“Give it a rest. This isn’t a woke crap,” one user insisted. “She likes CosPlay and frankly she made an awesome outfit. It’s in good fun.”
Another added, “It’s funny & harmless. Good for her! Her outfit was impeccable! I think Ben Franklin would have enjoyed it… They say he was a rascal with a good sense of humor.”
Organizers of the event, including West Philadelphia resident Elena Jackendoff, described it as a “democratic competition” intended to encourage public participation in Independence Day festivities held at one of the city’s most historic sites, according to LifeZette.
Jackendoff said turnout exceeded expectations, with participants continuing to arrive after the contest had started, forcing organizers to adjust logistics in real time to accommodate the crowd.
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