Michelle Dee on posting LGBTQIA+ pride flag: 'I stand with them and I am an ally’
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee has come forward as a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community ahead of Pride Month.
The beauty queen posted a standalone pride flag emoji on May 17, which is the global observation of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia.
According to Dictionary.com, the rainbow flag is "used to represent the LGBTQ community and is used to express Pride in this community."
One PH's Sa Totoo Lang has since directly asked Michelle about why she posted the LGBTQIA+ flag and what it was calling for.
"Well I've always been an advocate for autism awareness, mental health, and the LGBT community," the country's Miss Universe representative this year began her answer.
She then contextualized how she posted in response to social media buzz at the time.
"There is some noise around social media right now. So I just wanted to stand firm with my ground and show everybody in the LGBT community that I stand with them and I am an ally for them as well," Michelle explained.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2023 has been consistent and vocal about her support for the gay community, speaking for the LGBTQIA+ and raising funds for relevant organizations in the past.
"I hear you, I support you, and I will always march with you. Let’s keep making waves together. So proud of the #LGBT community!!! Happy #Pride Day!" Michelle posted in 2018.
