Catriona Gray donning her Miss Universe 2018 crown. Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@catriona_gray
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray proved she is truly an ally of the LGBT community when she stood her ground against accusations that she has compromised her Christian faith.
The criticism stemmed from a comment thread in one of her recent social media posts. Gray first turned heads with a photo promoting Pride Month, as seen in her Instagram account yesterday, June 15.
While most of Gray’s fans praised her support of the LGBT community, some netizens expressed their disapproval of the beauty queen who has been vocal about her Christian faith. One netizen going by the handle @smith_discoverer called out Gray with a question: “What happen[ed] @catriona_gray about your testimony about your christianity? Please do not compromise.”
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@catriona_gray
But Gray refused to let the comment about her religious background define her support for human rights.
“My belief as a Christian does not limit me from fighting for the rights of others,” she said. “I love my God and love my fellow brothers and sisters.”
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@catriona_gray
“Religion is never an excuse to hate, put down or act indifferent to the suffering of others,” Gray stated. “I believe God is love, and I will treat everyone – no matter who they are, to [the] best of my ability, with love.”
The beauty queen’s defense of the LGBTQ+ community was commended by netizens.
https://twitter.com/zekemartinx/status/1139899951687716864
“THIS. IS. WHY. SHE. IS. A. QUEEN. AND I STAN HER FOR LIFE!!! She is definitely an icon who is never afraid to address and tell her opinions on social issues. #PRIDE,” Twitter user @zekemartin said last night, June 15.
Gray has been open about her advocacies for civil rights as she continues to work with organizations such as Young Focus for underprivileged children and Love Yourself Inc. for AIDS awareness — all while doing her duties as the reigning Miss Universe. JB
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