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14 August 2016

Crowds gather at Sainsbury’s for ‘big gay kiss-in’

By Fabio Crispim

A number of people came together yesterday (July 13) to stage a kiss-in at a Sainbury’s store in Hackney where earlier this week Thomas Rees and his boyfriend Josh were told off for “inappropriate behaviour” after they held hands in the store.

According to The Metro, an estimated number of 200 people attended the event to pledge their support to the gay couple by partying, holding hands and eventually kissing.

Before joining in with the affection, the couple thanked their supporters.

Speaking to the Press Association, Joshua said:

“The number that turned out was absolutely insane, we were not expecting this at all.”

Thomas added, “We were right to be holding hands because when someone questions your behaviour in such a direct manner you can’t help but analyse how you are perceived by society.”

“When your community comes behind [you] and says, ‘You were right and you are right,’ all that does is amplify your feelings. We were right to complain and do what we’ve done and fight those people who said we were wrong.”

A member of the public shouted ‘Get off my street’ at the group, but protestors carried on and danced to Diana Ross and Donna Summer.

Thomas said, “Both of us have received messages from people around the world who don’t have courage to hold hands, let alone stand up against something like this. You have to do so.”

More stories:
Gay Tongan Olympian gets his butt out and tells The Daily Beast: ‘Kiss it and f**k off’
Naomi Campbell and Jussie Smollett cover Attitude’s September Style Issue

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