I've always seen our faith as an instrument to embrace our fundamental equality, before God and before our laws, and not as a license to discriminate.

The quote by Pia Wurtzbach emphasizes the role of faith as a unifying force that upholds fundamental equality rather than as a tool for division. She stresses that true religious values should lead people to embrace equality “before God and before our laws,” reinforcing the idea that both spiritual and civic principles demand fairness. By clarifying that faith should not be used as “a license to discriminate,” she rejects interpretations of religion that justify exclusion or prejudice.

The origin of this quote comes from Wurtzbach’s public advocacy as Miss Universe 2015, where she frequently used her platform to speak about social issues, including gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and humanitarian concerns. As a public figure in the Philippines and internationally, she highlighted how faith can coexist with inclusivity, challenging cultural and religious attitudes that sometimes perpetuate inequality.

Her statement reflects the broader tension in many societies where religion is invoked both to promote compassion and, at times, to justify discrimination. By framing faith as a source of unity rather than division, Wurtzbach encourages a perspective that aligns moral values with the principles of human rights and equal treatment under the law.

Ultimately, Wurtzbach’s quote champions a progressive understanding of faith—one that strengthens respect, dignity, and equality for all people. It reminds us that religious belief, when rooted in compassion, can harmonize with modern values of justice and fairness, rather than standing in opposition to them.