Steven and Conor Bonilla Graham-Darby, from Leigh, have spoken out about the 'dehumanising' homophobic abuse they suffered after sharing images of their wedding. The couple married in Liverpool in June surrounded by family, friends, and their son George, describing the occasion as a 'celebration of 15 years of love and commitment'.
However, after pictures of their special day were shared online, they were subjected to a wave of homophobic abuse. Hundreds of abusive comments were directed at the couple, leaving them feeling like they were 'drowning in negativity' after one of the happiest days of their lives.
Abuse Followed by Support
Steven, a floral designer, said the level of anger took the family by surprise. He noted that although the abuse was countered by a 'lot of love' and support that made them feel 'very proud', he wanted to highlight their experience as a reason why Pride events, such as this weekend's Wigan Pride, are held and matter so much to the LGBTQ+ community.
He said: "Our wedding was a celebration of 15 years of love and commitment, and we wanted to add a floral, artistic flair to our photos to allow us to express ourselves in the way that we wanted to."
"But never in my mind did I think we would get this level of abuse. It seemed like people came out of their way to direct their negative comments at us, which I don't think would happen to heterosexual couples posting their wedding photos."
Real Consequences for Real Families
Steven added: "We should be allowed to share our love online, in the way that we want to express ourselves, and not to experience so much negativity which makes us question whether we can hold hands in public or if it's safe enough to open my shop if people know where I work."
He stressed that 'posting wedding photos is not consent to be abused'. He said: "We are two husbands. We are parents. We are raising a young son who is loved beyond measure."
"Reading comments that call us child molesters, question our ability to be parents, or claim our son must be unhappy because he has two dads isn't 'having an opinion', it's hatred. It's dehumanising and has real consequences for real families."
Why Pride Still Matters
Steven affirmed his support for this weekend's Pride event in Wigan. He said: "People often ask why Pride is still needed? Pride is the one place where my husband, my son, and I can walk hand in hand without wondering who might shout abuse. It's a place where our son can look around and see families like his celebrated instead of criticised. It's where, for one day, we don't have to explain our existence or justify our love."
"We don't want special treatment. We want the same thing every family wants: to love openly, raise our son, celebrate life's biggest moments, and feel safe doing so."
"If you can't understand why that matters, then perhaps it's time to ask yourself why two men getting married makes you so uncomfortable."
Wigan Pride is supported by Wigan Council. Events, including a parade, will take place in the town on Saturday, August 8.
