As an African-American woman competing on the pageant circuit, 2004 Miss America Ericka Dunlap counted among her early inspirations Queen Esther — the Jewish hero who saved her people from an oppressive tyrant by proclaiming her faith publicly.

“Queen Esther was one of the driving forces behind my success,” said Dunlap. “Being connected to Queen Esther has always been a very special thing to me.”

I dunno. Forgive me for being cynical, but somehow I find this all very hard to believe. Suuuure Queen Esther’s your hero and suuure you’re not just saying that because you’re addressing a Jewish audience.

Then again, she’s not running for President, so, well…I guess anything’s possible.