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MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A new face is representing White Station High School as homecoming royalty.

Brandon Allen was crowned Friday night during White Station’s game against Bartlett, the school announced on Facebook in a post that’s been shared hundreds of times.

Allen said despite what anyone says, he’s always felt like royalty.

“I always felt like I was a queen,” Allen said. “I always felt like I am that business. I am that news. I am me.” Allen said his school got rid of the title of ‘King” and “Queen” and changed it to “Royalty,” opening the door for any student to be able to win. “I was mad that there could only be one winner, and I was also sad at the fact that everyone who tried their best didn’t win,” Allen said.

Allen’s crowning raised some eyebrows because he chose to wear a dress for the big moment. Some comments on the school’s Facebook page were critical, but most were supportive and offered congratulations.

He said he’s always lived by doing what makes him happy.

“I felt like I wasn’t taking a risk,” he said. “I was just doing what I do best and do what I want to do.” He said he encourages everyone to be who they are and live their life out loud. “Don’t try to hide yourself all because some people might not accept you,” Allen said. “Trust and believe me there are going to be people who don’t accept you, and you’ve got to be like, ‘I don’t care. I’m going to do me. I’m going to be myself, truly and unapologetically.'”

White Station Principal Carrye Holland commented on the matter saying, “Here’s the thing: it’s Brandon’s right to run for homecoming court under Title IX. It’s the students’ choice of who they want to support as homecoming royalty. I’m exceedingly proud to be the principal of our amazing school. … WSHS loves and supports everyone regardless of who they are or what they believe. Thank you for the love and light from so many of you.”

SCS Superintendent Joris Ray responded on Twitter Saturday night:

“Shelby County Schools policy prohibits discrimination, and the District is committed to ensuring a positive and respectful school environment where everyone is treated with dignity. Homecoming queen and king is a tradition based 100 percent on student votes. As Superintendent, I support student voice and expression.”