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MANILA, Philippines – Following the mass shooting in Orlando that left 50 people dead, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach sent out messages of support to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.
One of Pia’s advocacies is gender equality, and the shooting happened at a gay nightclub. Relatives of the suspect told the media that he had anti-gay views.
On the Miss Universe Instagram account, Pia posted a photo of the Philippine flag, together with rainbow flags – a symbol of LGBT pride – being waved. In the background, a double rainbow is set against a cloudy sky.
“You have my love and you are in my prayers,” Pia began.
She then said that she knows all about the Orlando shooting, as well as other tragic events that have been happening all over the world, including the death of singer Christina Grimmie. (READ: Singer Christina Grimmie dies after post-concert attack)
“I am staying true to my word as the LGBT community is close to my heart. It’s 2016, there’s no room for hate anymore,” said Pia, ending her post with the hashtags #PrayForOrlando and #NoHateJustLove, and a series of multi-colored emoji hearts.
Pia also took to her personal Instagram account to say more on the issue.
The beauty queen said, “Why do people have to suffer? That’s a question none of us can truly answer. But one thing I’m certain of, nobody deserves the feeling of terror.”
She also took the the time to explain why she posted that particular photo: “And if you’re wondering why I chose this photo? Because I am Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach from a highly conservative Catholic country but I am not afraid. Celebrated but also sometimes criticized. And staying true to my word, the LGBT community is close to my heart.”
On her personal account, there was also a photo of Pia during her homecoming parade in Manila, which marked the first time she came home as Miss Universe.
Pia recounted how rain was predicted on the day of her parade, but instead, the 6-hour long event was graced with two rainbows.
“And right before my eyes I knew why I was blessed with with this responsibility. I saw my destiny. And I will continue to be your voice, your ally, regardless of where you are from, what religion you believe in, what your financial status is, it doesn’t matter. This photo is not photoshopped. It definitely was the most beautiful day,” Pia said, referencing her homecoming parade hashtag, #MostBeautifulDay.
She finished: “Filipinos respect diversity. And my dream is to see the whole world accept everybody for who they are.”
All 3 photos were posted on Monday, June 13.
On June 14, Pia posted a few photos of her volunteering for Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC), a provider of HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and advocacy, that hopes to end AIDS. She is also a known advocate of HIV/AIDS awareness.
– Rappler.com
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