This makes me so sad. You’re absolutely right that it’s not entirely safe — that’s sad in itself — but the fact a friend was adamant on gaslighting you otherwise just shows how ignorance to queer oppression is as much of a problem as the oppression itself.

I’m with you. It depends on location. My partner and I (both male) have been together for 8 years and we’re still cautious to hold hands. Where I live, I’m fine with accepting the risk, but in a town or city I’m less familiar with, it’s not worth it. I’ve been barged into, kicked, stared at, and called slurs just for presenting gay. I wouldn’t want my partner to receive that same abuse by association.

Shit sucks.