Love Hurts? It Shouldn't
http://artvoice.com/issues/v7n37/gaywatchby Bryan Whitley-Grassi
9/10/2008
He has endured severe physical abuse by his intimate partner. His face and body left bruised and swollen from relentless beatings. After years of abuse, he decides to seek help. But, when he calls the police, they reply, 'This is only a roommate argument, why did you bother calling us?'
"He begins to feel defeated. No one knows he's gay. When he talks to his friends for support, he does not reveal he is in a same-sex relationship. He does not know where to turn. He agonizes making a decision to reach out for help, fearing outsiders will not understand him. Who will be supportive of a gay man? Are domestic violence counselors understanding and knowledgeable of heterosexism and homophobia? Are professionals empathic and supportive of victims who are in same-sex relationships? Will the police be respectful of his experiences?
